Farming communities across South Australia’s Mid North are receiving vital support through a drought relief initiative led by Rotary Australia World Community Service (RAWCS), in partnership with the Farmers Relief Agency Ltd. As part of a broader effort to assist those affected, the MGA Whittles Community Foundation has donated $50,000 to help fund the ongoing response in one of the hardest-hit regions of the state.
The donation was presented by MGA Whittles Group Executive Chairman John George OAM and MGA Insurance Group Managing Director, Paul George, alongside Susan Brennan, Whittles Body Corporate Manager. Accepting the donation on behalf of RAWCS were Wendy Gaborit OAM, Robert Cooper, and Bill Marles—key figures helping to drive the Rotary-backed initiative on the ground.
This contribution is part of the MGA Whittles Group’s broader commitment to backing Australian communities beyond the everyday, particularly in times of hardship.
The Mid North has been among the regions hardest hit by prolonged drought, with severely reduced grain yields leading to a critical shortage of livestock feed. The impact extends well beyond agriculture, affecting mental health and livelihoods across entire communities.
“This drought is not just affecting crops and livestock—it’s taking a toll on mental health and entire livelihoods,” said John George. “We believe in standing by the communities we serve, not just through insurance, but through committed support when it’s needed most.”
The funds will be used to purchase bales of hay from interstate growers, which will be transported into affected regions. The South Australian Government, through the Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA), have already committed to covering the freight costs.
Beyond immediate relief, the initiative also aims to deliver ongoing support to ensure that farming families remain resilient and productive in the face of adversity.
