Christmas gifts for farmers

A local volunteer is ensuring farmers in central Queensland receive a special gift this Christmas.

GIVING: ADRA op shop is asking for donations to send to struggling farmers this Christmas. Karen Tyler is calling for community support. Photo Patrick Woods / Sunshine Coast Daily.

WITH Christmas just around the corner an op shop volunteer is making sure the festive joy is felt everywhere, including Central Queensland.

Nambour ADRA op shop volunteer Karen Tyler has co-ordinated a collection of non-perishable food and household items that will be delivered to farmers in central Queensland.

Mrs Tyler said she was inspired to help our farmers after hearing about their recent struggles.

“I just had burden to help the farmers, I’ve been hearing a lot about what they are going through and … thinking that no one cares,” she said.

“So, I thought we should try and show some farmers that we care and help them.”

Central Queensland farmer Suzette Smith owns a stud property in the Banana Shire and said the donations will be greatly appreciated.

“It’s wonderful to know there’s people out there that actually care,” she said.

While Mrs Tyler said she is taking all sorts of donations “like cleaning stuff, even toilet paper, laundry powder, dog food and cash” but Mrs Smith said donations for the cattle are crucial.

“We need stock feed, it’s always about the cattle feed and cattle,” she said.

“I don’t think anyone’s experienced a time like this in Queensland before, so we are taking each day as it comes.

“But it’s about being able to afford feed, being able to buy it and being able to source it a reasonable price.”

Mrs Tyler said the donations, which can be dropped off at the Nambour ADRA op shop until December 20 will be delivered just before Christmas.