Fence donation spreads 100km
More than 300 farmers received free fencing materials at a charity event put on by the Rapid Relief Team in Wellsford two weeks ago.
RRT donated 80 fencing repair packs valued at $1,500 each to farmers who attended a Farmers Community Connect event at Eketāhuna Rugby Football Club last week.
RRT NZ general manager Paul Simmons says volunteers also provided a hot cooked lunch, including burgers and refreshment for 200 people.
“Farmers Community Connect is all about getting farmers and their families together to share a meal, catch up with their mates, and send them home with a bit of to help get them through a tough time,” says Simmons.
As the charitable arm of the Plymouth Brethren Christian Church, RRT supports frontline workers and emergency services by providing food, donations and other resources, as well as hosting events for the community.
Established in 2013 to assist emergency services in times of disaster and crisis by providing meals and other support, it’s expanded to more than 16,000 volunteers and provides support to the community through charitable donations and events.
Mike Butterick, MP for the Wairarapa, says he thanks RRT for their commitment to the rural sector.
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"I’ve seen the difference Rapid Relief Team events make across the country and today is no exception," Butterick says.
“Tararua farmers have taken a real hit from recent storms, and RRT’s fencing packs provide immediate, hands-on help to support their recovery.”
Tararua District Council Mayor Scott Gilmore also welcomes the support.
“Recent storms have placed a real mental and financial strain on our local farming community.
“The Rapid Relief Team’s support today, both through the donation of fencing packs and by bringing people together, offers a much-needed lift for our farmers at a difficult time.”
RRT decided to hold the event after Dairy NZ reached out following heavy rains and strong winds which caused widespread damage across Tararua.
“Our farmers have faced some tough conditions in recent weeks," says DairyNZ senior area manager Janine Swansson.
"The Rapid Relief Team’s generosity provides not only vital fencing supplies but also reassurance that the farming community isn’t facing this challenge alone,” she concludes.
