The Local Government Association of Queensland will donate $20,000 to the Queensland Drought Appeal to help ensure local communities remain resilient in the face of ongoing drought.
LGAQ President Sunshine Coast Mayor Mark Jamieson said the impact of the drought, which had been affecting some areas of the State for six years running, spread far beyond the farm gate.
He said that while the devastation that primary producers had suffered remained the public face of the drought, their plight was shared by the small businesses, families and workers in towns and cities who relied on a healthy rural and regional economy for their own well-being.
“A prolonged drought as we are experiencing now will have prolonged consequences. I urge Queenslanders to support the Queensland Drought Appeal so those on the land are able to prevail through this enormous challenge,” he said.
“When so much of the state is under constant economic and emotional stress, it is fitting that the whole state pulls together to help.”
Mayor Jamieson said the LGAQ wholeheartedly supported the Queensland Drought Appeal channelling all money raised to the Queensland Country Womens’ Association.
“The QCWA knows full well what is happening on the ground and where these donations should be used to be of most benefit,” he said.