Local businesses support disaster struck communities

Local businesses in Bonner are rallying behind drought affected communities in Queensland as they begin to recover from devastating droughts and bushfires.

Federal Member for Bonner Ross Vasta MP said he was proud of the people in his electorate for rising up and helping Australians doing it tough.

“The spirit of mateship has really shone through in such a difficult time for our country and to see people in my electorate rolling up their sleeves and helping out underpins who we are as a nation,” Mr Vasta said.

“Wynnum Bar, Cedar and Pine have been purchasing their wine from scorched vineyards in Stanthorpe, as well as the storing and reselling of their stock on their behalf because of fire damaged refrigeration.

“Other businesses have organised luxury getaways to boost tourism efforts and remind people these bushfire affected regions are still thriving in spite of and the loss and hardship.”

The 2019 Ross Vasta Christmas Appeal for Stanthorpe saw Bonner locals raise $5000 for the struggling region, with many in the community appreciating the extra support during the festive season.

“Because of the generosity of the Bonner community, family-run businesses struggling through drought were able to keep their doors open, and parents were able to put presents under the tree,” Mr Vasta said.

“Even with the Christmas period over, it’s great to see creative ways people from our community are able to support or neighbouring Australians in need.”

For more information on how you can support a drought and bushfire affected community visit www.bushfirerecovery.gov.au