The Australian Television industry has thrown its support behind a 30-second Community Service Announcement created by Sydney-based production company Brightworks for the 200BALES campaign.
The 200BALES campaign is raising vital funds for the provision of feed bales to struggling farmers and the CSA is receiving vital on air support across WIN, Prime7, ABC, Channel 7 and Foxtel.
200BALES was established by a group of Mudgee residents looking to help struggling farmers in the Mid Western Regional Shire as they battle the drought.
The initiative offers everyday Australians the opportunity to pledge $200 towards a quality round bale which are distributed to farmers in need of a helping hand.
Brightworks founder Cameron D’Arcy who also owns Sierra Escape Mudgee’s first and only luxury eco-glamping experience, is passionate about telling the local farmers’ stories of hardship and resilience, having witnessed the catastrophic impacts of the drought.
“We can’t thank the television networks enough for they’re on air support of the 200BALES CSA.
“We appreciate there has been a lot of coverage on the difficult conditions being faced by Australian farmers, but long-term forecasts suggest there is little relief in sight.
“Farmers will be relying on the generosity of Australians to survive the difficult summer period,” said D’Arcy.
“We’d love to challenge our clients, fellow production campaigns, media and advertising agencies to get on board and help where you can.
“$200 goes a long way in saving precious stock and famers livelihoods,” added D’Arcy.
The 30-second 200BALES CSA is currently being aired across WIN, Prime7, Channel 7 and ABC from now through to January 2019, with the Foxtel network airing the CSA across its channels during the month of November.
Starting as a local initiative 200BALES has already far exceeded expectations having donated over 1970 bales to 410 famers in the Mid West region.
200BALES organiser, Glenn Box says the success of 200BALES lies in the fact that every dollar donated goes directly toward supplying the bales.
“We hope the CSA support from the networks will help those outside of country towns see the glaring reality of what’s happening in our regional areas.
“The recent rain has been very welcomed but it’s not been a drought breaker by any means. September was Australia’s driest on record and many farmers have been hand feeding their cattle for well over a year.
“With predictions of dry conditions set to continue well into 2019, these bales are bringing much needed relief to those affected, many of whom are at risk of losing their farms.
“Australians need to recognise the important role farmers play in providing essential commodities such as milk, bread, meat and many more into our households.
“The drought is an ongoing issue and any support given, big or small, is greatly appreciated by our farmers,” added Box.
Credits
• Director/Producer: Cameron D’Arcy
• DOP: Michael Hegarty
• Production Assistant: Matthew Withaar
• Editor: Karin Zigner
• Production Company: Brightworks
Thanks to: Panavision, VA Hire, ISM Studios & White Chocolate.
For more information or to donate to the 200BALES initiative click here.
