UPDATE: Women farmers in South-West Victoria are facing an unprecedented drought crisis, grappling with severe challenges to keep their operations afloat. As conditions worsen, these resilient women are stepping up as the backbone of their farms, ensuring that not only their livelihoods but also their families’ well-being are protected.
For Bronwyn Lenehan, a dairy farmer from Nullawarre North, the last 12 to 18 months have been particularly devastating. “Normally we would have maize, grain, and silage, and we’ve got none of that left,” she revealed. With their hay supplier now out of stock, Lenehan and her husband, Tim, are scrambling to find alternative feed options for their cows. “What happens if it doesn’t rain?” she questioned, highlighting the dire uncertainty looming over the future.
Meanwhile, Anna Kenna, another dairy farmer in the region, emphasized the emotional toll the drought has taken. “It knocks their confidence,” she said about the strain on her husband, Ben. “I think a lot of farmers are holding their breath waiting to see what happens in spring.” Kenna has been managing the bookkeeping and human resources for their farm, feeling a sense of helplessness as they navigate these difficult times.
Similar sentiments were echoed by Anne Rosolin, who has intentionally kept her farm smaller to weather the drought better. “We’ve only needed to buy three loads of vetch to boost it up nutrition-wise,” she explained, but she remains concerned about what the future holds if conditions do not improve. “If spring doesn’t bring a good harvest, there will be nothing for the next year.”
These challenges extend beyond financial concerns; they tap into the emotional and mental health of the farmers involved. As Belinda Doolan, a fellow dairy farmer, noted, “Women on farms take on an emotional caring load,” often prioritizing others’ well-being over their own.
In response to the ongoing crisis, local women farmers have organized an annual ladies’ lunch event, set to occur tomorrow, with over 300 women expected to attend. This year, they will welcome Samuel Johnson, a Gold Logie winner and cancer research advocate, as the guest speaker. The event aims to provide support and solidarity among women in agriculture, showcasing their strength and resilience during these challenging times.
Dr. Alison Kennedy, director of the National Centre for Farmer Health, emphasized the importance of community support during these trying times. “It’s vital for farmers to reach out to their professional networks for advice and strategies to manage challenges,” she stated. She highlighted that government grants, such as Look Over the Farm Gate, play a crucial role in helping farming communities unite and tackle their difficulties together.
As the drought continues to impact livelihoods across South-West Victoria, the story of these women farmers serves as a powerful reminder of the human resilience amid adversity. They are not just managing farms; they are nurturing their families and communities, proving that they are the true heart of agriculture.
Stay tuned for more urgent updates as this situation develops.
