Bega Cheese
Bega Cheese – Connecting Communities
Bega Cheese Raises a Whopping $660,000 for Drought Relief
Bega Cheese’s Connecting Communities Drought Relief program has raised $660,000 to assist drought-affected communities across Australia.
As an Australian manufacturer that relies solely on the supply of milk from Australian dairy farmers, Bega Cheese knows only too well the despair many communities face as a result of the drought.
“Australian farmers have endured many heart-breaking years battling the drought with inspiring resilience and optimism,” says Barry Irvin, Chairman of Bega Cheese.
“We wanted to provide greater hope and assistance to those worst hit by the drought. We developed the Bega Cheese: Connecting Communities Drought Relief program to generate extra drought relief funds for drought affected communities across the country.”
In six short months the program, with the support of loyal Bega Cheese customers, has raised $660,000, with ten cents from every block of Bega Cheese sold between 21 May and 18 November, 2007 being donated to the program. All funds will be distributed by the Country Women’s Association of Australia (CWAA) to communities in need.
“Bega Cheese would like to thank all who have contributed to this considerable effort and provided assistance to drought-affected communities,” says Mr Irvin.
“We must all maintain awareness of the drought and the lasting impact it has on our farmers. As I said at the launch of this program, one of the wonderful things about living in rural Australia is that you are never left to face challenges alone. Neighbours are always there to help in a crisis, whether they are from next door, another region, or across the country.
“Australian farmers appreciate the support they and their communities have been given, and continue to find new and innovative ways to cope with the impact of drought. The Country Women’s Association continue to work tirelessly in rural communities and is happy to accept direct donations,” Mr Irvin concluded.
For more information, photos or an interview with Barry Irvin please contact Sarah Fragapane, Bega Cheese on (03) 8541 1284 / 0413 171 705. CWAA enquiries should be directed to Lesley Young, National President CWAA on (03) 6426 7235.
