Look over the Farm Gate is being supported by the Victorian Farmers Federation, Royal Flying Doctor Service, Country Women’s Association, Country Fire Authority, National Centre for Farmer Health and the Department of Economic Development, Jobs, Transport and Resources (DEDJTR).

United Dairyfarmers of Victoria president Adam Jenkins said the funding could be used to run social events or community initiatives that brought neighbours and the community together to spend some time off farm to relax with family and friends.

“This may be as simple as hosting a free community barbecue, community tree planting, activities for children or forming a social group to meet regularly,” Mr Jenkins said. 

VFF president David Jochinke said applications for funding under the program opened on Monday, July 16.

The announcement of the program was made during the Cobden and Terang Mortlake football netball clubs’ clash at Cobden Recreation Reserve on Saturday.

The two clubs were playing for the ‘BlazeAid Cup’ in recognition of BlazeAid’s contribution to their communities.

Mr Jochinke said it was hoped the program would help south west communities not only recover from the fires, but come back even stronger.

Community groups can apply for grants of up to $1500 by going to http://lookoverthefarmgate.org.au/ or contacting the VFF on lookoverthefarmgate@vff.org.au

“The March fires were devastating for our farmers, families and communities in south-west Victoria,” Mr Jenkins said.

“Now that the initial emergency response is over, we cannot forget the long term recovery that is still required,” he said.

Funding also continues to be invested in the south-west through the VFF and BlazeAid’s partnership to fund the Poles & Wire Drive to renew burnt fencing.

The third installment of matched funding for crucial fencing repairs has brought the total funding to $90,000 to date.