TODAY hosts Karl Stefanovic and Georgie Gardner confirmed earlier this morning that the Nine Network will be hosting a Farm Aid Telethon on Monday, 20th of August 2018. The telethon will run from 5:30am and will dominate regular programming throughout the day on the Nine Network and 9Now.
The aim of the telethon is to raise money to provide support for struggling farmers, who are suffering during the nation’s current drought.
“It’s a dire situation. We need all Australians to rally together for our farmers who so desperately need our help. Our goal with this Telethon is to raise as much money as possible to assist them, their families and their communities,” Karl said on-air this morning.
“To see, firsthand what our farmers are experiencing is truly heartbreaking,” Georgie added.
“So much has already been raised but more is needed. I urge all Aussies to dig deep and support the Telethon, with all money donated going directly to the Drought Relief Appeal.”
TODAY announces August 20 Farm Aid Telethon.
The network will continue to showcase the impact of the drought this week, with Karl set to interview affected farmers across Australia, sharing their stories and bringing viewers special reports.
The telethon comes after Nine launched a Drought Relief Appeal last Thursday morning. Since then, the network has raised an incredible $1,317,350 thanks to the Australian public.
Viewers can continue to donate online via todayshow.com.au or by calling 1800 732 165 (Monday to Friday, 5.00am to 7.30pm).
TODAY’s Farm Aid Telethon will air live from 5:30am on Monday 20th of August on Nine and 9Now.
Karl and Georgie announce the telethon live on-air this morning.
The news comes after Grant Denyer shared his own battle with the public last week.
The 2018 Gold Logie Winner revealed the toll the drought has taken on his own property in Bathurst.
“My wife took this photo of our backyard and paddocks. So dry, kangaroos are drinking out of our dog bowl,” he shared on Instagram. “We’re lucky we don’t rely on the farm for income but so many in regional Australia do. It’s so sad. In many places it’s the worst drought since records began.”
Pleading with his followers to support Rural Aid, of which he and Chezzi are ambassadors, he added, “Some families are at breaking point, unable to afford food and with no choice but to shoot their stock so they don’t starve and suffer a slow death.
“Mental health issues have risen 70 per cent in our region and suicide by farmers is the most tragic consequence of such a drastic situation. Farmers harvest our food and the materials for the clothes on our back. Please think of them. We need them. They need us.”
