IN the days leading up to Christmas, the generosity of the Coolum community has been highlighted with a $20,000 donation to struggling farmers in the state’s drought stricken communities.

Ninderry MP Dan Purdie joined the Coolum Surf Lifesaving Club today to present the QCWA with the proceeds of their recent Steaks for Mates promotion, which was topped up with a generous donation from the Coolum Beach Surf Lifesaving Supporters Club.

Club member Mr Purdie said he was overwhelmed by the generosity shown by the Club, and its members and patrons.

“It’s amazing they’ve managed to raise such a significant amount of money in such a short time, and for such a worthy cause,” Mr Purdie said.

General Manager of the Coolum Surf Club Mal Wright said the Club wanted to show their support to farmers who were doing it tough.

“Following the buzz around Parma for Farmer, I got together with my Head Chef Brad Fechner and we came up with the idea of donating $2.00 from every wood fired char grill steak we sold, and we called it Steaks for Mates,” Mr Wright said.

From September to November, the club sold 4315 steaks, along with $775.65 in direct donations, raising $9405.65. The Supporters Club chipped in the rest, to bring the total to $20,000.

“Farmers of Queensland are having such a tough time that it was important for us to help them out as much as possible,” Mr Wright said.

“As a Club, we rely heavily on Queensland farmers for everything from beef to chicken, lamb, fruit and vegetables and everything in between, and without them, Australia stops so it’s important that we all show our support to them in this time of need.”

Mr Wright said the Club chose to donate the funds to the QCWA, who distribute it in the form of vouchers that farmers can use in their local communities.

“They (the QCWA) do such a fantastic job ensuring that those Queensland farmers most in need get the help and support that they need, and we are in a fortunate position where we are able to help our Mates in the bush.”