Drought-affected farmers in Queensland’s Isaac region received an early Christmas present when Toowoomba-based FKG Group donated 42 tonnes of hay from its Darling Downs farm as part of the firm’s commitment to the community.
Following planting in October, sorghum grown at the engineering and construction group’s farming division at Cecil Plains, exclusively for drought-hit farmers, was trucked to four properties in the Clermont region.
Andrew and Tania Wright of Dalby’s Wright Bulk Haulage, a small family-based haulage company, volunteered Andrew’s time and one of its trucks to take the hay on the 1946 kilometre round trip to drop the hay at the farmers’ doors.
“We have been in business for 10 years carting grain and get to see first-hand the devastation caused by the drought and meet farmers who are struggling,” Mr Wright said. “It is a great feeling to be able to do something to give back, especially around this time of year.”
As at October 1, 90 per cent of the Isaac region’s local government area was drought declared.
The donation followed FKG Group’s recent collaborative work with the same farms during a major road project across the Isaac region.
“Having received these farmers’ support previously, we are delighted to reciprocate by helping them during their time of need,” FKG Group’s Mackay area manager, Brad Gardner said.
“With a regional background, I have witnessed some tough times, but the conditions in Clermont have been the worst I have ever witnessed.”
FKG Group’s executive chairman, Gary Gardner, said the donation reflected the firm’s emphasis on growing and supporting the local communities in which it operates.
“We are a regional and family-owned business and although we have operated for more than 40 years, current drought conditions are exceptionally hard for farmers,” he said.
“We would encourage other farmers, where they can, to also lend a hand by planting a crop to aid others, so we can all help ensure the survival of this vital industry for Queensland.”
FKG Group has offices in regional areas such as Cairns, Mackay, Roma, Toowoomba and Townsville, and is an active participant in regional communities across the country.
