Bruce operates a sheep and cattle farming enterprise in the Cabonne Region. Over his many years as a farmer, Bruce has experienced his share of ups and downs but when his farm was severely affected by flooding in 2022, he needed extra support to start the recovery. He was referred to RFCS NSW for assistance with preparing and applying for a flood grant. Having no modern technology at his farm such as a computer, internet or mobile phone, he needed help from RFCS NSW to navigate his lack of digital skills and get the financial assistance that he needed. 

During his sessions with his local Rural Financial Counsellor, Danielle, they identified that he was experiencing cashflow problems after his wife passed away and the farm was hit by the floods.  Together they set clear goals including applying for the Rural Assistance Authority’s flood grant which were to fix the damaged fencing and improve the infrastructure of the farm.

Bruce and Danielle also worked together on other aspects of his farm business such as doing a business review and a plan for applying for Farm Household Allowance, as well as an application for the electronic identification of his sheep. They also discussed succession planning and workshopped options of what would happen to the farm when Bruce is no longer able to manage on his own. 

With the support of RFCS NSW, Bruce successfully received the flood grant. The funding enabled him to repair the farm’s infrastructure and enabled him to free up income and cashflow to pay for repairs which would have otherwise dramatically impacted his quality of life and the future success of the farm.   

“I was very happy with the service. Danielle went above and beyond with 110% effort and because of her hard work we were able to secure the flood grant. I appreciate the help she gave me,” says Bruce.