Dederang, Victoria

October 2024

In October 2024, Rural Aid volunteers travelled to Dederang in Victoria’s north-east to support farming families recovering from severe weather events and flooding that impacted the region across recent years. Following periods of intense rainfall and flooding through North East Victoria, many farming properties along river flats and surrounding rural areas experienced damage to fencing, paddocks, access tracks and critical farm infrastructure. Combined with ongoing seasonal pressures and recovery from previous natural disasters, many local farming families faced significant challenges restoring their properties and maintaining day-to-day operations.

During the Farm Recovery Event, 36 volunteers worked alongside 11 local farming families to help tackle the long recovery effort still underway months after the severe weather impacts. Volunteers assisted with fencing repairs, clearing debris and completing practical farm jobs that helped ease pressure on families rebuilding their farms and livelihoods. Beyond the physical support, the event delivered encouragement, connection and a reminder that rural communities are strongest when people come together to support one another through difficult seasons.