Drought relief funds obtained by Bilby
It’s a great day for the farmers. The Minister for Infrastructure, Daly Downs, announced yesterday that the Bilby/Bendalong region is now eligible to apply for drought relief.
This has come after intensive lobbying by the mayors of both Bilby and Bendalong, and the presentation of figures indicating that a seven year drought has decimated the larger grazing properties.
Local farmer Sally Flattley indicated her concern. ‘I’ve been trying to get this relief over the last three years. Couldn’t sell my cattle, couldn’t feed them. Now there’s a chance I can stay on my family farm.’

While the rainful was disastrous last spring, the water consumption figures for the Bilby/Bendalong region have been consistently lower than surrounding areas over those last three years. This has been largely attributed to the water-saving initiatives developed by the council in association with Bilby Landcare.
These initiatives have included a whole range of water-recycling devices being distributed to all new families in the district, as well as requirements for installation of water tanks and solar panels at the new housing estate, Eleanor Springs.
However, the Department of Infrastructure has acknowledged the dilemma for the larger farming businesses. The old dam above Bilby is very low, and the water they usually use for irrigation from the Valley View river has been used further downstream by other communities more in need.
Now it’s Bilby and Bendalong’s turn.
Check out the water-saving initiatives on our website, or contact Lynley Perrett, Communication officer, Bilby Shire Council 53566 55556 for any queries or enquiries.
Contact the Department of Infrastructure directly via their website www.infra.vic.gov.au to apply for drought relief. Read the instructions and eligibility criteria carefully.