ABC NSW to run Drought Appeal

With all of NSW officially declared to be in drought, and with farmers facing dire circumstances, ABC Radio will run a drought appeal in support of farmers.

ABC Radio Sydney, Canberra, local stations across NSW and ABC NEWS will combine to focus on the issues faced by farmers in rural communities, the effects of the drought and the future implications if it continues into Spring.

Richard Glover will broadcast a special version of Thanks God It’s Friday featuring regular contributors Gary Eck, Tommy Dean and Gretel Killeen, with music by Diesel.

Other program changes for Friday’s appeal include

  • The Country Hour replacing Conversations with Richard Fidler from 11.00am to midday.
  • A special 90-minute drought appeal program co-hosted by Evenings presenter Chris Bath
  • Weekends presenter Simon Marnie will air from 12.30pm to 2.00pm, replacing the Myf Warhurst show.  
  • James Valentine will also support the appeal with an “old-style telethon” during his Afternoons show from 2.00pm to 4.00pm.

ABC Radio Sydney’s Manager, Melanie Withnall, says the appeal was in response to listeners asking how they could help.

“It’s a collaboration between listeners and presenters throughout NSW and involving the whole team at ABC Radio and TV”

Listeners will be asked to support charities via a link on abc.net.au/drought or by calling 1800 RED CROSS.

Withnall says “I’d ask everyone to do what they can to support the appeal tomorrow. We really want to raise as much as we can to support those in rural communities”