DROUGHT RELIEF – HOME AND AWAY STARS AND NEW IDEA LEND A HAND

SUPPORTS THE FARMERS

Australia is facing one of the most devastating droughts of the 21st century, and it’s time for us to get behind our farmers. New Idea is proud to have teamed up with some of our biggest stars and shows to take action.

Stephen Peacocke is back from Hollywood to support his former colleagues at the Dollars For Dust event next weekend.

Organised by Home And Away hair and make-up artist Sherri Meisner, the event will raise money for the Drought Angels – an organisation that provides support to farmers suffering in the bush.

It’s a cause that is close to Stephen’s heart, having grown up in the country town of Bourke in north-west NSW.

‘I’m so glad to be able to be a part of an event like Dollars For Dust,’ Steve tells New Idea. ‘Having grown up in the Central West, it’s a cause that means a lot to me.’

Steve reveals that people close to him are currently suffering in the drought.

‘I’ve got friends from all across the state – from Bourke and Tottenham, to Trangie and Dubbo – who are all doing it really tough and saying that this is the worst drought since the ’ 80s. And that’s as bad as it gets,’ he says.

The actor has witnessed first hand the devastating impact a drought can have.

‘People out there tend to be eternally stoic but it’s pretty heartbreaking to see,’ he says.

‘From farmers to local businesses all the way through to the kids at school, in a drought this bad, everyone is doing it tough.’

Steve joins Home And Away actors Lynne Mcgranger and Sophie Dillman, who have also thrown their support behind Dollars For Dust.

‘Count me in,’ says Lynne. ‘I believe it’s so important to do something for people who are struggling and who are reliant on nature, which can be so unreliable.’

Sophie Dillman, who plays Ziggy on the Seven show, is also passionate about her support for the cause.

‘I think every Australian should get behind the farmers. If it wasn’t for them we couldn’t eat or be clothed!’