Christmas has arrived early for victims of the Sir Ivan bushfire, which burned through 55,000 hectares of farming-land in February, with almost one million dollars distributed this week.
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The Sir Ivan Bushfire Appeal, a joint initiative of the NSW Farmers’ Merriwa Branch and the Merriwa Show Association, raised a total of $915,345.91 for the Dunedoo, Leadville, Coolah and Cassilis communities.
Chair of the NSW Farmers’ Merriwa Branch, Pat Ryan, said the Appeal organisers were thrilled to be distributing the funds in the lead up to Christmas.
“Finally we have some good news for the bushfire affected communities after a very tough few months,” Mr Ryan said.
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“Fortunately no human lives were lost during this awful fire but five thousand head of sheep and cattle were destroyed, along with homes, machinery, sheds, farm equipment and a significant amount of fencing.
“There’s still a long road ahead for the people and the communities that are rebuilding homes and businesses but we have no doubt the money raised will give a much needed boost,” he said.
“We’ve seen communities coming together like never before and an outpouring of generosity that will never be forgotten.”
Donations to the appeal were in the form of cash, livestock, feed and grain along with ear tags, vaccines and freight. The funds will be distributed to more than 50 applicants who were affected by the fire.