After an outpouring of generosity from across the region following the Tingha Plateau Fire, $40,000 was distributed last week to 20 applicants who were devastated by the disaster which ripped through the district in February of 2019.

The losses included homes, sheds, stock, vehicles, belongings, and all manner of farming infrastructure upon which some people relied upon to make a living. Some lost everything they had.

The Tingha Fire Appeal was launched shortly after the catastrophe by BEST Employment with the Regional Australia Bank. This created a central place for people to make monetary donations. Once the fund was underway, the Inverell Lions and Macintyre Lions Clubs joined forces the BEST Employment to form an application assessment team to distribute the funding.

When reviewing applicant need, the Inverell Lions Club president Tom Cattell said the Lions specifically prioritised those families who had lost tanks, machinery and fencing, and other losses related to farming because they needed a hand.

“The Inverell Lions Club and Macintyre Lions Clubs thank BEST Employment, the CWA and the Red Cross for their help,” Mr Cattrell said.

“Also, the other Lions Clubs and other organisations for their donations.”

BEST Employment chief executive officer Penny Alliston-Hall said the appeal had been set up immediately after the fire to assist those hardest hit, and indicated BEST had been happy to facilitate the appeal process.