For fourth-generation farmer Dale, life on Boolcunda Downs in South Australia’s Flinders Ranges is more than a livelihood – it’s home.
“We’ve had 98 mils for the year – about half of last year. The feed’s very short. It won’t last through summer.”
Dale has spent his life caring for the land his family has farmed for over a century. But as drought tightens its grip across South Australia, he faces another tough season – one that’s testing his endurance, and his hope.
“We’re about to send some sheep away and start lightening mobs off. It’s just a matter of hang on at the minute and see what happens. The way the rain’s been treating us, I’m not holding a lot of hope.”
Despite the dry conditions and the uncertainty ahead, Dale continues to do what farmers do best – keep going. Each day is about balancing feed, caring for stock, and making the difficult decisions that come with running a property in drought.
🎥 Watch Dale’s Story
Hear directly from Dale about what life is like on the land during one of the driest years yet, and how your support through Rural Aid is helping farmers hold on through the drought.
When things got particularly tough, Rural Aid was there to lend a hand.
“We’re really grateful to Rural Aid. Dorothy in Quorn’s been amazing – she brings a smile, she brings hope. The hay we received made a big difference. We couldn’t have kept feeding without it.”
Through Rural Aid, Dale received much-needed hay to feed his stock, and regular visits from counsellor Dorothy, who provides practical support and a listening ear to farmers in need.
“It’s not just hay – it’s hope. Knowing that someone cares, that people out there are thinking about us, means the world.”
How You Can Help
This Christmas, you can help farmers like Dale hold on through the drought.
By donating to Rural Aid, you’ll help provide essential support – from hay and water to mental health and wellbeing services – ensuring that Aussie farmers don’t face these tough months alone.
Every donation makes a difference. Whether it’s buying a bale, filling a tank, or helping keep a counsellor on the road, your generosity gives farmers the strength to keep going.
“We just know this will end. We just got to hang on, get through, keep moving.”
Help Dale – and farmers like him – weather the toughest season yet.
Donate today and make a lasting impact.