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'I'll do this till I'm an old, old lady': hay runner's promise to those in need
The volunteer network delivered 3,630 hay bales to more than 130 drought-hit farmers and grew from a single convoy into a nationwide relief effort.
- Linda Widdup, a farmer from The Carlisle River, was named Victoria's Local Hero in the 2026 Australian of the Year Awards for founding The Aussie Hay Runners, a rural relief network supporting drought-stricken and disaster-affected farming communities across Australia.
- After witnessing devastating drought impact on farming families, Widdup organised a single hay convoy that evolved into a nationwide volunteer movement. The organisation now works closely with the NSW Rural Assistance Authority to deliver fodder across vast distances to communities facing environmental crises.
- During the 2025 Australia Day weekend, The Aussie Hay Runners convoy from Victoria delivered 106 truckloads—3,630 hay bales—to more than 130 drought-stricken South Australian farmers, including John Higgs.
- Widdup expressed overwhelming gratitude for the recognition, saying, "I just couldn't do it without the support and help of everyone around me." She pledged long-term commitment, adding, "I will be doing this till I am an old, old lady."
- Meaningful change often begins with a single act of kindness, as Widdup's recognition demonstrates. Australians can now nominate inspiring community leaders for the 2027 Australian of the Year Awards' Local Hero category.
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Total News Sources57
Leaning Left43Leaning Right0Center8Last UpdatedBias Distribution84% Left
Bias Distribution
- 84% of the sources lean Left
84% Left
L 84%
C 16%
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