Rapid Relief Team bringing support for 300 farmers

A109 Light Utility Helicopter flight with mayor Gisborne City from the air in November 2023.

The Rapid Relief Team, operated globally by the Brethren Church, have a “Farmers Community Connect” planned for Gisborne on September 1.

They aim to bring 300 Tairāwhiti farmers together for the event.

“The farming industry are doing it tough at the moment as a result of the cyclones so we wish to bring them some support,” said Clarke Judd, Rapid Relief team leader for Gisborne.

“We have done this event for those impacted by the cyclones in Hawke’s Bay and it was a real success.

“Those attending the Gisborne event will receive some free fencing supplies, free food and drink, and access to a large number of service providers related to the farming industry who will be there with advice,” Mr Judd said.

The donated fencing supplies include posts, battens and wire, with each donation package per farmer valued at $1500, worth in total $450,000 across the 300 farmer target figure.

“The local support services available will include health services, farm management advisory and veterinary support.

“This is an opportunity for farmers to connect with their local community,” he said.

The event will be at 210 Dunstan Road on Friday, September 1, from 8am till 2pm.

Rapid Relief Team (RRT) volunteers lend a helping hand to people in need in 14 countries,  including Australia, UK, North and South America, the Caribbean, Canada, New Zealand and throughout Europe including Poland and Ukraine.

The concept was established in 2013 by the Plymouth Brethren Christian Church in the UK , with 14,000 RRT volunteers now across the world.

“RRT was inspired by community spirit and the gift of giving, and is a way for our community to put our faith into action.”