Includes practical guidelines on supplementary feeding, animal health considerations, available assistance programs, and mental health resources, emphasizing community support and expert contacts to navigate the challenges posed by drought.

Key Points in the Drought Support Handbook

Drought Support Overview

• The handbook outlines various areas of support available for farmers in the Central Tablelands during drought.
• It emphasizes the importance of proactive management and seeking assistance from Local Land Services (LLS).

Supplementary Feeding

• Detailed guides are provided on the nutritional needs during drought, highlighting key considerations for different stock types (cattle and sheep).
• Emphasis on the need for high-quality feed and gradual introduction of new feeds to prevent health issues.

Animal Health Considerations

• Regular monitoring of livestock health is crucial, with specific attention to signs of distress or inadequate nutrition.
• Pregnant or lactating animals require special care to ensure adequate nutrition and health.

Pasture and Groundcover Management

• Strategies for managing pastures during drought to protect against degradation, including the concept of ‘sacrifice paddocks.’
• Recognition of the negative impact of drought on native pastures and the importance of maintaining healthy ground cover.

Available Assistance Programs

• Overview of various financial aid programs, including the NSW Drought Transport Fund and Drought Assistance Concessional Loans.
• Encouragement to connect with services designed for financial planning and management during difficult times.

Mental Health and Wellbeing

• Highlighting the emotional toll of drought on farmers and the importance of mental health.
• Resources provided for mental health support, including hotlines and professional counselling services.

Expert Contact Information

• Listings of relevant Local Land Services staff, veterinarians, and support workers available for assistance.
• Contact information for helplines focused on financial counselling and mental health support.

Resources and Tools

• Links to online tools such as the DPI Feed Cost Calculator and Drought Feed Calculator to aid farmers in decision-making.
• Guidelines on best practices for managing livestock, feed quality, and transportation during drought.

This handbook serves as a critical resource for farmers facing drought, promoting a community-oriented approach to navigating the challenges of sustainable agricultural practices and mental health management