Radio’s true power comes to the fore as ABC Melbourne shines a light on drought crisis

“It’s really, really bad. And I just need everyone to know.”

As Victoria suffers through its worst drought in decades, the true power of live radio came to the fore this week when Jason – a dairy farmer from Colac – broke down in tears as he told ABC Mornings host Raf Epstein he couldn’t feed his livestock.

A regular caller to Mornings, emotions bubbled to the surface as Jason explained how he’s having to spend $20,000 on hay every eight days, just to keep his cows alive.

It was radio in its purest form. Compelling, unfolding in real time, connecting urban and regional listeners, and conveying the brutal reality of a situation country people face, one which their city cousins may otherwise find very difficult to grasp.

774 ABC Radio Melbourne has been shining a light on the state’s farmers, and the devastating toll the drought is taking on their livelihoods.

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Also this week, Drive host Ali Moore joined farmers from the state’s west in Beeac, who shared heartbreaking stories about the crippling financial pain and mental health struggles they’re having to endure.

“People in the city have to recognise what we’re going through.”

Duncan – a sheep farmer from Metcalfe – recently hosted ABC Breakfast co-presenter Bob Murphy and Richelle Hunt – host of The Conversation Hour – at his family’s home.

Duncan told of the ongoing struggle for many farmers to simply put food on the table.

“My father always said the worst form of child abuse was leaving your son the family farm.”

If this conversation has raised any issues for you, help is available on Lifeline at 13 11 14.