The South Australia (SA) Growers Flood Appeal has raised A$152,000 for the 300 growers and 1,500ha of crops affected by last year’s floods.
Some A$50m in damages and losses occurred when the Northern Adelaide Plains were hit by floods and sever weather in September 2016.
To aid to growers, peak industry body Ausveg, together with the South Australian Produce Market, established the SA Growers Flood Appeal in October, fundraising money to aid growers purchase seedlings and re-established their crops.
“Thanks to the generous donations from South Australians’ and businesses such as Foodbank, The Horticultural Coalition of SA, Chep, Visy, IGA Supermarkets and SA Mushrooms, we’ve been able to raise A$152,000,” Angelo Demasi, CEO of South Australian Produce Markets, said in a company statement. “This financial aid has started to be given out to help farmers get back onto their feet.”
“It was difficult to see all the hard work you put into growing produce throughout the year go to waste due to crops being underwater and spoiled,” Comfresh Group’s sales manager, Jamie Dodds explained. “Since the severe flooding occurred, it has been great to see the industry and community really come together to help producers like us get back onto our feet. Our team really appreciates all the support we have received and the generosity of those who supported growers like us through the SA Growers Flood Appeal.”
Food relief organisation Foodbank SA is administering the funds, with applications for assistance assessed by an independent panel.
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