Hay Runners founder Linda Widdup’s promise to farmers in need | The Canberra Times

For thousands of Australian farmers struggling with drought, bushfires and floods, the sight of a lorry loaded with hay can mean more than just feeding livestock; It can also mean hope.

It’s Aussie Hay Runners founder Linda Widdup’s determination to help rural communities through their toughest times that has earned her national recognition. Victoria’s Local Hero at the 2026 Australian of the Year Awards.

The Carlisle River farmer and volunteer organizer was recognized for her extraordinary efforts supporting farmers across Australia through the group she founded in 2019.

What started as a simple act of kindness has grown into a nationwide volunteer movement.

After witnessing the devastating impact of drought on farming families, Ms Widdup organized a convoy of trucks to deliver donated hay to struggling producers.

This initiative would become the Aussie Hay Runners. Today, the voluntary organization has become one of Australia’s most respected rural outreach networks, distributing thousands of tonnes of hay and feed to farming communities affected by drought, bushfires and floods.

“We’ve honestly never been busier and I absolutely love it, I’ll be doing this until I’m an old lady,” Ms Widdup said.

award Australia’s Local HeroThe award, presented in each state before the national honor is announced in January, recognizes Australians who have made outstanding contributions to their communities.

Ms Widdup’s work has had a profound impact on rural Australia since its inception. For many farming families, the arrival of the Aussie Hay Runners convoy is a reminder that they are not forgotten.

It’s something Ms. Widdup says she will never take for granted. Beyond practical support for livestock feed, deliveries provide moral support to communities that often face isolation and hardship during natural disasters.

Ms Widdup’s leadership helped transform Aussie Hay Runners from a grassroots operation to a national volunteer network supported by truck drivers, donors and community members committed to supporting Australian farmers in any way they could.

It was a humbling surprise to be nominated for the Australian of the Year Awards.

“Talk about overwhelmed,” he said. “I have no idea who nominated me, but I want them to know that I am grateful from the bottom of my heart.

“I don’t have anything to say about all of this. I feel like there are so many people out there doing incredible things. But it’s so valuable that the person who nominated me thinks I’m one of those people and that our work is worthy of such a prestigious award.”

His efforts involved countless hours coordinating volunteers, fundraising, sourcing hay, and managing the complex logistics required to transport supplies across vast distances and into the most remote and disaster-affected areas of the country.

Over the years, Aussie Hay Runners have responded to some of Australia’s most challenging droughts, floods and bushfires, ensuring struggling farming families receive support when they need it most.

Recognition as a Local Hero highlights not only Ms Widdup’s dedication, but also the vital role volunteers play in supporting regional communities in times of crisis. He thanks the volunteers, truck drivers and donors who make the organization’s success possible.

“I couldn’t do this without the support and help of everyone around me; there are some generous people willing to help in times of crisis,” he said. “We work closely with the NSW Rural Assistance Authority, without them we wouldn’t be able to do what we do to help farmers.”

As Ms. Widdup’s tribute demonstrates, meaningful change often begins with a single act of kindness and a willingness to help others.

From a single hay convoy to a nationwide support network, the success of Aussie Hay Runners demonstrates the power of community spirit and the difference one person can make in the lives of thousands.

You can now nominate someone for Australia’s Local Hero category. 2027 Australian of the Year Awards.

Go to website australianoftheyear.org.au nominate someone who inspires you and your community.