Dealership raises $5k for drought appeal

Since September 2016, Toowoomba ag-dealership David Evans Group has been collecting $2 from every pack of twine sold across its four premises for the 'Buy a Bale' campaign, an initiative set up to help Australian farmers and families struggling through one of the worst droughts in the country.

The campaign asks for people to spare some cash to buy a bale of hay to be delivered by volunteers to those in need.

In addition to money, other forms of donation include groceries, diesel for transportation, and corporate donations.

When it started its campaign in September, David Evans Group hoped to raise $6000 over four months for 'Buy a Bale'. By December 16, 2016, the company has sold over 1550 packs of twine across its four Queensland outlets, raising a total of $5047.

While the final figure fell slightly short of its target, the company was rapt with the outcome nevertheless.

"It was a great result despite the late hay season, and we thank the efforts of our staff who championed the cause as well as Kubota Australia, who also chipped in and donated," says David Evans Group's Dan Maloney.

"It’s always nice being involved in an initiative where you’re giving back to the community, and I believe the 'Buy a Bale' appeal is exactly that."

On December 16, 2016, Maloney presented a cheque for $5047 to 'Buy A Bale' CEO, Charles Adler at David Evans Group's premise in Toowoomba.

Adler says the appeal is very grateful for the support it received.

"Current dry conditions in many areas of Western Queensland have already this summer seen us move fodder as well as distribute hundreds of Christmas presents and hampers through local supermarkets," he says.

"These funds will help us keep our support of these rural communities rolling into the new year."

Find out more about the initiative and donate to 'Buy a Bale' at buyabale.com.au