Bushfires are not the only disaster that sparks the interest of BlazeAid founders, Kevin and Rhonda Butler, and the realisation of the enormous task facing Queensland cattle producers and communities evoked a quick response from the Kilmore East farmers.
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Selling wool in Melbourne this week, he instructed his agents, Australian Wool Network, to deduct just 0.05 per cent of his gross proceeds (about $600) and have it put towards BlazeAid's voucher system destined to go directly to Queensland graziers.
The reaction since floods hit large parts of Queensland's cattle country has continued to gain momentum.
BlazeAid is partnering with The Herd Online, AuctionsPlus and other agricultural businesses, including Stock & Land, to establish the "North Queensland Farmers Flood Drive".
Mr Butler said his and wife Rhonda's donation of a "small contribution" was born out of the realisation that the affected cattle producers would have no income from their properties for some years.
Six or seven years of diminishing herds then the loss of those remaining cattle meant no income for the next three or four years, he said.
Mr Butler said local traders in the affected areas were also in "real problems".
"We are talking about saving towns. They are such good people, they don't deserve this devastation," he said.
Donations through BlazeAid meant 100 per cent of the money went towards vouchers of $3000 for Post and Wire.
Mr Butler said the vouchers were spent at local stock and station agents in centres like Cloncurry, Richmond, Julia Creek, Winton, Hughenden and Mt Isa.
Refencing and infrastructure development was critical to allow land holders to bring in stock once the feed grows.
Last week BlazeAid coordinators distributed $40,000 to 15 graziers as recurring grants to vetted, deserving and worthy graziers.
"So far about $350,000 has been raised and I would like to see reach $10 million over the next six months," Mr Butler said.
BlazeAid volunteers were already fencing on 18 stations in the affected area and that number would increase to 100 by mid April, he said.
The Herd Online's Sam Levett said the flood drive project had pushed out to the whole industry. People wanting to donate could purchased goods via the AuctionsPlus online auction of goods that was running to March 1.
Vendors could also donate when selling online or at saleyards anywhere in Australia.
To donate direct to BlazeAid, website: www.blazeaid.com.au/donations for details.
