Source: Victoria Country Fire Authority
Hay being loaded for transport from Musk Fire Station
When bushfires tore through the Victorian towns of Harcourt and Ravenswood South in early January, the devastation shocked the entire community.
Knowing how tough the conditions were for many people, Musk Fire Brigade volunteers immediately looked for ways to help.
Musk brigade volunteer Jed Nevill, who is also a member of Rijk Zwaan Australia’s production team was one that quickly put his hand up to get involved.
“Obviously, when a fire goes through a rural area it takes out a lot of infrastructure, but it also destroys feed in paddocks and leaves many people struggling to care for animals and livestock that have survived the fire,” Jed said.
“We saw first-hand the devastation after being deployed to the area, so we saw an opportunity to cut some hay from our farm in Musk, and with the help of the members of Musk CFA, Rijk Zwaan and neighbours, we baled it for donation to the Harcourt and Ravenswood communities.”
CFA members and staff took time out of their weekends and lent their own equipment to cut, bale and then transport the 50 free bales of hay on 31 January 2026.
A neighbouring farmer to Rijk Zwaan’s farm also donated bales of hay for it be delivered to those in need.
Musk Fire Brigade Second Lieutenant Trevor Brown used his equipment and truck to cut the hay, bale it and transport it. Brigade members Greg, Wayne and Aaron Orr donated their trucks and time to transport the hay.
“When terrible things like this happen, it’s a good reminder that we are part of a big community of growers, farmers and residents in these fire-prone areas, so we need to help each other,” Jed said.
“I was glad I was able to talk to the management team at Rijk Zwaan and they were immediately keen to provide this practical support.
“This hay run was organised on the back foot from a disaster close to home for us but it’s had a great impact. I think its something we will continue to do each year.”
Information about government support for those affected by fires is available here.
If you’d like to participate in the next hay run or want more information, contact Musk Fire Brigade through its Facebook page.
Image: Gavin Orr and John Franklin
Video: Gavin Orr
| Submitted by | Justine Webse |
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