Jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland Governments under the joint Commonwealth-state Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA), the grant supports grazing enterprises impacted by the Western Queensland Surface Trough and Associated Rainfall and Flooding beginning 21 March 2025.
Project Officers Lenice Jarling and Emily O’Hanlon are taking calls and travelling across the region – more than 7000 km so far! – meeting one-on-one with landholders to assess damage, develop workplans and prepare applications for the Exclusion Fencing Recovery Grants. Their on-ground engagement is strengthening recovery efforts and helping ensure funds reach those who need them most.
RAPAD Chair and Mayor of Longreach Regional Council Cr Tony Rayner said the early progress reflects both the demand for support and RAPAD’s long-standing experience in delivering practical, locally-led programs across Central Western Queensland.
“The response we’ve seen from landholders demonstrates just how important this funding is for the recovery of our exclusion fencing network,” Cr Rayner said.
“The grazing industry is the backbone of our region – a cornerstone of our economy, our communities and our way of life. This investment supports producers to get back on track, protect their stock and their livelihoods, and continue contributing to a strong regional economy.”
“We thank the Australian and Queensland governments for their investment in this program.”
“RAPAD has a proven track record of delivering regional programs effectively, and our team is doing an excellent job providing personalised, on-property support. A tailored approach by locals, for locals, is what makes all the difference in a region as vast as ours.”
“The Department of Primary Industries team have provided valuable guidance to help shape our program, as we work alongside our colleagues at Quilpie Shire Council to provide support and consistency in delivery across the impacted western Queensland region.
Cr Rayner said the scale of the task ahead should not be underestimated.
“It’s a big region, and recovery will take time. And we’re ready to continue supporting landholders through every step of the process.”
Landholders who have experienced exclusion fencing damage due to the March 2025 flooding event are encouraged to contact RAPAD to discuss their eligibility and to assistance with workplans and applications.
Visit:
www.rapad.com.au/projects/exclusion-fencing-recovery-program
Contact:
Lenice Jarling – ljarling@rapad.com.au | 0409 129 578
Emily O’Hanlon – eohanlon@rapad.com.au | 0438 185 677
Media contact:
Aleisha Domrow – 0423 116 865 – adomrow@rapad.com.au