FARMERS are struggling to feed their animals as hay is still in short supply after the fires at Walla and Gerogery on December 17, and the problem is getting worse.
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Volunteer co-ordinator Rhonda Mickan said yesterday even though people had got through Christmas, landowners were looking for supplies for the immediate future.
Mrs Mickan said it was apparent that feed would be in short supply for many months with at least 10 farmers needing hay urgently.
People wishing to donate hay should contact Mrs Mickan on 0429 401569 or alternatively the Walla Gerogery Fires Hotline 0457 731824.
Farmers requiring hay should also contact Mrs Mickan while hobby farmers are encouraged to use the Greater Hume Council stockpile in Coach Road, Gerogery.
Meanwhile the SS&A-WAW appeal being co-ordinated by the council is still accepting cash donations.
People can donate at the SS & A Albury or Wodonga or at any branch of the WAW Credit Union, The Border Mail’s Albury and Wodonga offices or Greater Hume customer service centre.
St Vincent’s de Paul is handling gifts of clothing, furniture and white goods and can be contacted on (02) 6025 8363.
Rural Care Link is collecting food and grocery items and can be contacted on (02) 6026 3001 or (02) 6026 3733.
Greater Hume Mayor Denise Osborne said next month the council would contact affected landowners so losses could be assessed by the independent appeal committee.
The council is also working towards implementing a fencing program and helping remove debris from properties affected by the fires.
On December 17 a fire that started in the Walla tip raced across farmland destroying homes, crops and livestock.
Fanned by 100kmh winds, the Gerogery fire is estimated to have caused $3.27 million worth of damage, including the loss of 500ha of unharvested crop, 3000ha of stubble, 300km of fencing, 1038 sheep and 121 cattle.
Some farmers are contemplating a class action against the Greater Hume Council over the origin of the fire.
