Local branch staff and customers are working together to fundraise for the organisation, which is delivering much needed hay to assist farmers across regional NSW. The Walcha community will be helping the Burrumbuttock Hay Runners provide important relief for farmers through in-branch fundraisers, customer and staff donations over the next few weeks. 

“It is great to see our community coming together to support our local farmers who are going through a time of significant hardship,” says Commonwealth Bank Walcha Branch Manager, Anne Martin. “The Burrumbuttock Hay Runners are doing inspiring and important work by supporting farms across the region. When we first heard about the initiative we knew we had to take part and help make a difference in our community.”

All 162 Commonwealth Bank branches in regional NSW and ACT will be supporting the Burrumbuttock Hay Runners, with customers also able to donate $20 towards a bale of hay that will be displayed in branch. The funds raised will be used to purchase hay and fuel the trucks transporting it across the state.

Set up in 2014, the BHR have completed 12 successful hay runs to help drought-affected farmers all over New South Wales and Queensland. The largest hay run in April 2016 used 258 trucks and 406 trailers to deliver $6 million of hay, feeding 300,000 animals.

Mrs Martin said the Commonwealth Bank has a range of support measures available for customers experiencing financial difficulties. Customers should phone 1300 772 968 or visit the branch to find out more.