FROM THE NEWS DESK

Cyclones Debbie and Cook have well gone but the devastation and damage caused remains. The impact of the weather event is still being calculated, in terms of physical, emotional and financial cost. Federated Farmers and a host of other agencies and organisations are out in the rural community offering help to people struggling to come to terms with the damage. The next six months are likely to be crucial for those looking to rebuild farming operations heading into next season. The Rural Support Trust and other groups held meetings at Patetonga and Springdale halls recently to offer advice and support. There was a special call for farmers to look out for their neighbours during the coming difficult period. Reporter Katrina Tanirau has the story on page 20. Still in the Rural Delivery section, regional councillor Hugh Vercoe, page 23, also agrees the weather event has put a focus on flood protection and it’s a conversation likely to be on council’s table in the near future.

Lawrence Gullery