Article by Mark Phelps, courtesy of Stock Journal.
The artwork that was the centrepiece of the recent Rural Aid charity lunch has been installed in Hancock Agriculture’s Eagle Street headquarters in Brisbane.
Painted and donated by Charles ‘Chick’ Olsson, the oil on canvas piece captures the coming monsoon.
Hancock Agriculture and S Kidman & Co chief executive officer Adam Giles said the artwork was perfectly positioned in the foyer of the company’s Brisbane headquarters.
“Chick’s piece brilliantly captures the build up of the wet season,” Mr Giles said.
“You really get the sense of the electricity in the atmosphere.
“chick’s piece is big and it’s bold and makes a real impact.
“We’re especially proud knowing it has all been done in support of the great work of Rural Aid.”
Gina Rinehart, who is also the patron of the bush charity Rural Aid, paid $10,000 at the charity’s annual Long Lunch in Brisbane in April.
Generous donors at the lunch kicked in more than $250,000 to assist the charity’s efforts in assisting farmers doing it tough.
The fund raising included a $100,000 Queensland Government grant announced by Agriculture Minister Mark Furner.
Each of the 35 tables were also able to buy a raffle ticket in a pair of stylish $400 Rossi ‘Kidman’ boots, manufactured by Mrs Rinehart’s Rossi Boot Company.
Rural Aid CEO John Warlters said the funding was critical to providing ongoing support for farmers.
“The charity’s community programs helped create more sustainable communities by building stronger futures for all Australian farmers,” Mr Warlters said.
“Rural Aid offers free, confidential counselling to Rural Aid registered farmers and their family.
“Counsellors catch up with their farmers where they’re most comfortable; whether it’s on farm, in town, or over the phone.
“They are professionally trained to support their clients through all kinds of life challenges and come with an understanding of the unique needs of rural people.
“They can support with practical strategies to help farmers refocus and get back on track.”
In addition to assisting with wellbeing, the charity provides critical support to farmers affected by natural disasters requiring financial and fodder assistance.
Rural Aid is now gearing up for Rural Aid Long Lunch in Goondiwindi on Friday, September 13. Contact Michelle Smith from Agri Labour Australia on 0457 461 787 for tickets.
