THERE ARE NO BORDERS WHEN IT COMES TO HELPING MATES IN NEED, SAYS HEATH JOHNSTON, GEMLIFE’S SUNSHINE COAST RESIDENTIAL CONSTRUCTION MANAGER.
This year the Queensland-based A Long Drive for Drought, which supports the farm aid charity Drought Angels, will cross the border to New South Wales to raise funds and have a whole lot of fun.
“This is my second year taking part,” said Heath.
“I really enjoyed the drive last year and to know that not only was it fun, but also raising funds for a very important cause is something which means a lot to me.
“I’m originally from New Zealand and I just love seeing the incredible Australian scenery. One of the places I really enjoyed going out to last year was Boulia – the landscape is just so different to anything I’d ever seen before.”
A Long Drive for Drought takes place over eight days from 24 August with a parade of classic 40-series Landcruisers mustering up at Goondiwindi to make their way to Birdsville.
The 2500km drive includes stops in 15 towns including Moree, going past Lightning Ridge, into Queensland to the border town of Hebel, then through the Outback to Bedouri before arriving in Birdsville.
“I’m looking forward to seeing Lightning Ridge, it’s a place that you hear of but never really imagine that you’ll get there yourself,” said Heath. “But one of the things I’m really looking forward to is being there for the Birdsville Races.
Now in its 141st year, the Birdsville Races is an iconic event attracting more than 6000 people from across the country who descend on the tiny Queensland town close to the border of South Australia.
Since the first event in 2019, A Long Drive for Drought has raised more than $268,000 for farmers in need. This year the crew has set the ambitious target of $100,000 to help struggling farmers.
“The original fundraising came about because of severe drought but there is so much support that farmers need – due to floods, mouse plague, etc – and the drive is a great way to support them,” said Heath.
To get ready for this year’s event, Heath says he has been working to ensure that his 1974 40-series Landcruiser is in top condition for the drive.
“She did well last year,” he said. “Didn’t let me down at all and I expect the same this year too.”
Once again, GemLife is sponsoring Heath’s fundraising efforts with a $1500 donation and covering his fuel costs.
HOW YOU CAN HELP
You can support Heath’s fundraising efforts and help put a smile on the face of an Aussie farmer by going to: longdrivefordrought.com.au and clicking the `Donate’ button.