Community shows support for drought-affected farmers at Loxton’s Longest Brunch

Loxton’s Longest Brunch delivered a strong show of community support for drought-affected farmers across the region, thanks to a successful, locally-led event supported through PIRSA’s Connecting Communities Event Grant.

The family-friendly brunch on Sunday 26 October welcomed more than 90 primary producers for a morning of food, connection, and community fundraising in Loxton’s main street.

The initiative was developed by local farmer Kiara Fisher, who wanted to create a community event with direct benefit for producers and local businesses.

Many producers are experiencing one of their driest seasons in years, and the event offered a welcome chance to step off the farm and spend meaningful time with others facing similar challenges.

More than $11,500 was raised on the day, and further donations are expected to bring the total closer to $20,000.

Almost 550 primary producers across the district will receive vouchers to spend at participating local businesses, which means the money stays in the local community where the impacts are felt. This approach helps support farm families and strengthens local businesses feeling the economic impacts of reduced on-farm spending, helping keep funds circulating locally during dry conditions.

The Loxton Hotel, Country Bakehouse, Apex, Loxton Council, and the Loxton Chamber of Commerce were among the organisations involved in making the event possible through venue support, catering, logistics, and promotion. The State Government's Connecting Communities Event Grant provided financial support alongside contributions from local partners and the wider community.

Beyond the financial outcome, the event provided an important wellbeing benefit for attendees. For many producers, social connection has become harder to maintain during prolonged dry conditions. Some have had limited contact with neighbours or peers for months due to workload pressures, reduced spending, or stress.

Ongoing challenges are facing the region, with some croppers reporting as little as 100 mm of rainfall this season. Livestock producers and grape growers also experience the strain of ongoing dry conditions, including impacts on production, cashflow, and resilience.

While the vouchers are not intended to solve the full impact of drought, they offer a positive and practical boost, helping families purchase items they may have cut back on and encouraging small acts of relief and comfort during a difficult period.

The initiative also helps reinforce community connection and business support at a time when it's needed most.

Photo by Bec Shaw.