Bairnsdale Uniting Church is calling on all local community groups and households to hold a ‘Great Outback BBQ’ to support farmers who are doing it tough in the drought.

The campaign has been launched by Australia’s oldest bush charity, Frontier Services, who warns the need for on-the-ground support of those living in rural and remote Australia has never been greater.

“People living in rural communities and remote locations are facing severe financial and physical stress from drought and floods, and most often they are doing it alone,” Frontier Services national director, Jannine Jackson, said.

“Social isolation is the silent stress. Not many understand that those on remote properties can go weeks and weeks with no face-to-face contact and no one to talk to.

“It is so important that contact is made when times are tough and that is what we do. Our people knock on doors making welfare checks and offering practical help. In many remote locations we are the only agency that remains.”

Bairnsdale Uniting Church is holding a Great Outback BBQ on August 25.

“Hosting a Great Outback BBQ event is a great way that we in Bairnsdale can help those suffering from the effects of drought,” organiser, Marilyn Cassidy, said.

“We call on others in our community to host their own event and raise funds to make a difference to remote farming families and those families on the land suffering from the effects of drought.”

Frontier Services is asking Australians to hold a Great Outback BBQ during September to promote mateship and show their solidarity with farmers doing it tough.

The Bairnsdale event will be held at Bairnsdale Uniting Church from 10.30am on Sunday, August 25.