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Fifteen of the biggest agencies in Orange have come together to provide financial support for drought-stricken farmers across NSW.
Gary Blowes from Blowes Real Estate organised get-together of 15 agencies, including First National and Ray White who together raised over $15,000 towards drought relief.
Each agency donated $1,000 to the fund which will be given to Rural Aid to fund 280 hampers that will be given to farmers across NSW.
Rural Aid runs many programs to support rural Australians including the Buy A Bale initiative and Farm Army which provides volunteers to help on farms.
Importantly, all supplies for the hampers will be purchased from local shops and supermarkets in affected communities.
Libby Seaman, principal from Ray White Orange also joined the venture and said that she felt it was important to show unity at this time.
“I had already donated through other fundraising ventures but felt that it was important to be part of an industry event,” Ms Seaman said.
Ms Seaman said that it was incredibly important for anyone to give back to the community and this was a time to do so.
“It is vital that agents or any citizens give back to their community. It is important to be part of the community that you live and work in,” said Ms Seaman.
First National Bowyer & Livermore’s Tom Campbell said that, despite competition in real estate, all agents were keen to get involved with the initiative.
“Competition is fierce amongst Orange’s agents and we don’t always see eye to eye. But everyone had a smile on their face and everyone was pleased to get in and contribute together” said Mr Campbell.
In addition to individual office initiatives, a majority of First Nationals members are donating money towards the Buy a Bale initiative, donating up to $500 worth of hay per home, the equivalent of 25 bales.
Network chief executive said that farmers work hard for Australians and it was time for Aussies to give back.
“It’s now time for us to put our farmers needs first in every way possible and I commend the unity shown by Orange’s real estate community. It doesn’t matter how small or large the donation, the more every Australian does the sooner our farmers will receive the benefits and the moral support cannot be underestimated,” said Mr Ellis.
The relief comes at a poignant time for NSW as it was announced just last week by the Department of Primary Industries that 100 per cent of NSW is in drought.
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