Fodder Depot Delivers $2 Million in Support to Fire-Affected Properties

Member for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland has praised the extraordinary community effort that has delivered more than $2 million worth of fodder and feed to farmers impacted by the Longwood bushfires in one week of operating.

Ms Cleeland said the scale of the operation had been remarkable and had provided critical support to farmers in the immediate aftermath of the fires.

“An estimated $2 million worth of fodder has now been distributed to farmers who needed help immediately,” Ms Cleeland said. “That support has been essential in keeping livestock alive at a time when there was nothing left to feed them.”

She said the operation began within hours of the fires, after early conversations with local families highlighted the urgency of securing feed for surviving stock.

“From the very beginning, it was clear that feed was going to be critical,” Ms Cleeland said. “Waiting wasn’t an option, and the community understood that straight away.”

Ms Cleeland said the fodder distribution centre was established quickly through collaboration between local families, volunteers and community members, with a call put out almost immediately to source and move feed where it was needed most.

“This came together because people stepped up, shared the load and got on with the job,” she said. “Once the call went out, the response was overwhelming.”

She said the effort was powered by volunteers and generosity from across Victoria and beyond.

“While the fodder passed through local hands, this response was backed by people who wanted to help when it mattered most,” Ms Cleeland said.

She acknowledged the personal toll on those involved.

“There were long days, very little sleep and a lot of emotion,” she said. “But there was also determination and a strong sense of responsibility to make sure farmers weren’t left on their own.”

She paid tribute to those who carried the operation.
“I want to acknowledge Neil, Kerrie, Sarah and Alistair Tubb, and every volunteer who played a role,” Ms Cleeland said. “What they have done reflects the very best of this community.”