THIS year has been a tough one for dairy farmers across Victoria, not least of all in Rochester.
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A crisis hit their industry in April when the country’s largest dairy co-operative slashed its prices for suppliers, compounding environmental and economic pressures that saw average incomes drop by 70 per cent in the past financial year.
So the Rochester community, led by local St Vincent de Paul Society volunteers, did something to try ease some stress for these farmers and give those doing it hard a chance to relax.
A special event was held in October for the area’s dairy farming families, which included a barbecue lunch, entertainment, raffles and guest speakers, including former AFL star Kevin Sheedy.
Each farmer also received tickets to the raffles, beer vouchers to enjoy a beverage on the day and a credit voucher worth $200.
About 175 people made it along to the event.
Vinnies Rochester conference president Gavin Houlihan said credit vouchers were also delivered to any families who were unable to attend, with about 200 dairy farming families living within 30 kilometres of the town.
“A lot of farmers are gutted out there,” he said.
“Some of these young farmers are mortgaged up to the hilt. Emotionally and mentally, they’re gutted.”
Mr Houlihan, a retired dairy farmer himself, said the day not only gave farming families an opportunity to unwind, but demonstrated the community cared about them.
The farmers relied on their towns for support, he said, and the towns depended on their farmers.
Vinnies Victoria chief executive officer Sue Cattermole said $42,000 was put towards the event.
“It’s really important to recognise how individual farmers and families are facing the challenge, and the impact for them,” Ms Cattermole said.
Mr Houlihan said the conference’s support of the community was continuing ahead of Christmas, giving hampers of food to families who might need a hand.
Vinnies Bendigo regional president Tony Spurling said the Bendigo conferences also directed about $60,000 to the organisation’s council in that area for the support of the Rochester area.
Vinnies is now in the midst of its Christmas appeal.
To give your support, visit the Vinnies website or call 13 18 12.