While large parts of the state have received welcome rain, there are still pockets of northern NSW, including the north of the Moree Plains Shire, that are still classified as drought affected.
With this in mind, the National Drought and Flood Agency will be hosting a Christmas party in Mungindi this Saturday, December 12.
Promising to be an event full of fun and surprises, the aim is to provide families with a reprieve from the stresses of the drought and the impact of the fire that devastated the town earlier in the year.
The Crackin' Christmas Carnival will take place at the Mungindi Golf Club commencing at 5pm.
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The highlight of the afternoon will be the spectacularly entertaining performance by the Crackup Sisters, presenting their very special Christmas show.
This will be followed by a free barbecue and a visit from a man in a red suit arriving by a very unique form of transport.
As well as the entertainment and barbecue, support for drought assistance will be available.
Applications for $500 Rotary debit cards, food hampers and donated Christmas presents for kids, ice-creams and lollies, will be available.
National Drought and Flood Agency regional recovery officer Sandy McNaughton is based on a property near Delungra and understands first-hand the continuing effects the drought has had on communities.
"While some parts of the country have recently experienced some really terrific rain, a little bit of rain does not signal the end of the drought," she said.
"It's important to recognise that even for those who may be coming through this drought, recovery takes many years.
"It's critical that our farming communities understand that we are standing shoulder to shoulder with them and remain deeply invested in supporting rural and regional communities affected by drought."
The National Drought and Flood Agency was established by the Prime Minister to coordinate the Australian Government's response to drought nationally, and to support recovery of the area flooded in far north Queensland at the beginning of last year.
"We understand that many people are struggling as a result of the drought, so the National Drought and Flood Agency has partnered with Rotary to provide applications for $500 debit cards or vouchers," Ms McNaughton said.
"People are encouraged to come along and apply, as well as receive support regarding what other drought assistance is available."
Ms McNaughton said she is grateful to the numerous organisations who are lending support to participate on the day.
"It's terrific to have the invaluable support of the Rural Resilience Program, Department of Primary Industries, as well as GIVIT, RAMHP, Rural Aid and the Chaplains from the Salvation Army," she said.
"The Rapid Relief Team have been fantastic in providing food hampers.
"The Rotary Club from Moree will be providing the catering.
"We are extremely grateful to all those organisations who have rallied to make this an unforgettable event."
And there is no better way to crank up Christmas than with a live performance by the Crackup Sisters.
Born and bred in Winton in outback Queensland, the Ruth Sisters grew up with dirt on their faces, warm hearts and mischievous minds - chucking cartwheels and creating routines on the hills hoist.
Their shows are fast, fun and unexpected. With cleverly-layered jokes (to appeal to all ages), physical comedy, crowd interaction, crafted chaos and loads of action.
The Crackup Sisters are passionate about preserving and reviving outback art forms and connecting with Australian communities.
Their shows combine the Australian performance skills of stockwhip cracking, knockabout acrobatics, hula hooping, Australian working dogs, aerial acrobatics, dance and comedy, with a raw and honest perspective on how they relate to each other and our country.
Don't miss this brilliant entertainment and all the other treats at the Mungindi Golf Club.
The free event is proudly presented by the National Drought and Flood Agency. BYO chairs.
RSVPs are required, with number of adults and children, as well as children's ages for Christmas presents.
Please RSVP to Sandy McNaughton on 0408 499 306 or Sandra.McNaughton@pmc.gov.au.
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