A convoy of 26 trucks filled with hay and supplies arrived in Omeo and surrounding towns from Dunnstown on Sunday, providing relief to families and farmers devastated by fire.
The massive effort by farmers from Dunnstown, Ballan and areas surrounding Ballarat made national news and has been described as a symbol of the Australian spirit.
Watch the convoy on the move, below:
Dunnstown beef farmers Karl and Laiken Britt organised the delivery in 48 hours, after first having the idea to help on Thursday.
The original plan to deliver two trucks of hay rapidly grew as other farmers and community members joined the effort, ultimately becoming a convoy of 26.
Watch an Omeo local speak about the impact of the hay delivery, below:
The team left Ballan together at 4.30am on Sunday and most stayed in Omeo and the surrounding region overnight.
The trucks, many with the Australian flag tied to the back, were escorted into restriction zones by police and firefighters.
They then split off under escort to make the deliveries to a number of devastated properties in Omeo and surrounding towns.
Watch the hay unloaded at a devastated Omeo property, below:
Drivers and volunteers spent the afternoon unloading the hay onto properties that had been badly burnt, including a sheep and cattle farmer who had nothing to feed his animals before the hay arrived.
Mrs and Mr Britt said they had felt overwhelmed by the community response and the delivery they had achieved.
The value of the hay donated and delivered as part of the convoy from Dunnstown has been estimated at around $90,000.
Community members also made monetary donations to help purchase fuel for the convoy's journey.
Rochelle Kirkham
Rochelle covers court and has a particular interest in social issues including homelessness, food security and family violence.
Rochelle covers court and has a particular interest in social issues including homelessness, food security and family violence.
