Cowboy hats and boots will make an early winter appearance in Brisbane today as the city turns out for Big Dry Friday.
Launched in 2018 by Morgans Financial Limited during one of Australia’s most severe droughts, Big Dry Friday aims to create awareness of the difficulties regional and rural Australians face and provide vital funds.
Morgans Executive Chairman Brian Sheahan said today was a chance to support Aussies living in the regions.
“Big Dry Friday is a day to connect city and country and to provide support where it’s needed most and we are looking forward to seeing a great response from corporates and individuals – whatever you donate makes a difference,” he said.
Morgans is urging city dwellers to channel next month’s Ekka vibe early and don cowboy hats and boots, but also forego, or match, what they might spend on lunch or drinks today and donate it to supporting rural Australia.
Mr Sheahan said the initiative had so far raised more than $6.2 million for rural charities.
He said all donations go to supporting education, mental health and wellbeing through Australia’s most trusted charities, including Rural Aid, Royal Flying Doctor Service, Schools Plus, and Outback Futures.
“Big Dry Friday began during one of the worst droughts our country has ever seen, and while the rains have come, the challenges facing rural and regional Australians are harder than ever, which is why Big Dry Friday now focuses on creating long-term benefits for rural Australia by supporting education, mental health, and wellbeing.
“We want to remind those in rural and regional communities that their efforts in supporting everyone living in the city, are recognised and appreciated which is why we encourage city people to donate what they might spend on a lunch or drink and donate it to the cause.”
The Morgans Foundation has pledged to match all donations dollar-for-dollar this year up to $350,000.
