Queensland’s corporate community rocked cowboy hats and boots in July to celebrate Big Dry Friday, a cause that helps bridge the gap between city and country.
In its seventh year, the initiative raised more than $1.5 million, bringing the total funds raised to $7.7 million since its inception in 2018.
The Morgans Foundation has pledged to match all donations dollar-for-dollar this year up to $350,000.
Funds will directly support key beneficiaries: Rural Aid, the Royal Flying Doctor Service, Schools Plus and Outback Futures, as well as other local charities that support education, mental health, healthcare and disaster relief in rural and regional Australia.
Morgans Financial Limited launched Big Dry Friday during one of Australia’s most severe droughts to create awareness of the difficulties regional and rural Australians faced and provide vital funds to where it was needed most.
Big Dry Friday this year expanded its reach, hosting simultaneous events in Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney.
Morgans executive chairman Brian Sheahan said Big Dry Friday 2024 returned to continue the vital support for Aussies living regionally and rurally.
“Big Dry Friday is a day to connect city and country and to provide support where it’s needed most,” he said. “We saw a great response from corporates and individuals.
“Big Dry Friday began during one of the worst droughts our country has ever seen and, while the rains have come, the challenges facing rural and regional Australians are harder than ever, which is why Big Dry Friday now focuses on creating long-term benefits for rural Australia by supporting education, mental health and wellbeing.
“We want to remind those in rural and regional communities that their efforts in supporting everyone living in the city, are recognised and appreciated, which is why we encourage city people to donate what they might spend on a lunch or drink and donate it to the cause.”
Big Dry Friday highlights were a lively auction and haybale stacking competition, all set against the picturesque backdrop of the Brisbane River.
Guests included Adam Giles, CEO of Hancock Agriculture, whose S.Kidman business donated more than 90 pairs of Rossi boots for raffle, former Australian netball player Laura Geitz, Queensland Reds players Taj Annan and Suliasi Vunivalu and Rural Aid CEO John Warlters.
Please visit www.bigdryfriday.com.au/get-involved to donate.
Facts
* Big Dry Friday isn’t just another day on the calendar; it’s a lifeline for charities making a real
impact in rural Australia.
* The impressive funds raised at the events are a testament to Australians’ deep compassion and solidarity, demonstrating a successful bridge between city and country to support rural and remote areas across the nation.
