This hay season, Mornington Peninsula Shire's conservation park The Briars have donated 950 bales of hay produced on-site to the Need for Feed disaster relief program.
Need for Feed provides fodder to farmers affected by drought, fire and flood emergencies.
In 2018, 800 bales of hay produced at The Briars were donated to help farmers suffering due to the drought.
In 2019, the amount of hay grown in The Briars' broadacre paddocks was increased, leading to 950 bales being donated. The bales will be distributed to communities affected by drought and the recent Victorian bushfires.
Mornington Peninsula Shire Mayor and Briars Ward Councillor Sam Hearn said "while a small gesture, we hope these hay bales give some relief to bushfire affected communities and farmers".
Briars Ward Councillor Bev Colomb said "the bushfires have been devasting for Victoria, many communities and wildlife – we want to lend a helping hand where we can".
Briars Ward Councillor Rosie Clark said "farmers throughout Victoria have been extremely affected by bushfires and drought. The 950 hay bales will help alleviate farmers and provide some support during this trying time".
The Need for Feed program coordinates the pick-up and delivery of hay to those in need. Learn more about this Lions Club project at needforfeed.org.
Funding for hay baling is included in The Briars operational budget. Hay baling has been conducted by Jones Engineering and Agricultural.
