Farmers on the Mid North Coast are set to benefit from receiving one million litres of water thanks to the launch of a new program.
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Club North Haven have partnered with local businesses including First National Real Estate North Haven and Camden Haven Chamber of Commerce to help local farms during the tough drought conditions.
Club North Haven assistant manager Shane Globits said the water will help farms to feed stock, clean down stables and machinery. It will also be used in the farm house for drinking and bathing water.
"The fact that the farmers don't have to put their hands in their pockets for water means they will be able to use those funds on other areas in the farm, including the basics like buying groceries," Mr Globits said.
Karyn and Karissa at Benmar Farm, Hannam Vale were the first farm recipient for the water program. They received 40,000 litres.
The farm hosts 120 adult cattle and 40 calves. The milk they produce goes towards to the Norco Organic Milk range and can be purchased at Coles or Woolworths.
Mr Globits said the farm is located on Hannam Vale Road and has received less than half of the minimum annual rainfall.
"They have been purchasing water for several months just to keep the farm going," he said.
"The 20,000 litre tank connected to the farm house will last three to four months and the cost of filling it would purchase one month worth of groceries.
"The other 20,000 litres used for the cattle will last 10 to 12 days, as these are dairy cows they require more water to produce milk."
"The water is also used to clean down the milking stalls. As this is a food hygiene area, it must remain clean at all times."
Club North Haven has been in discussions with Clubs NSW to help throw out the challenge to all other clubs in NSW to follow suit.
"The great thing about this initiative is that the water supplied goes directly to the farmer," Mr Globits said.
"There are no admin fees in the collection of donations or any hidden costs. The tankers go straight to the farm when they are required and the money saved goes into back in the pockets of the farmers."
