Disaster assistance grows producers’ recovery

Primary production in one of Queensland’s most spectacular but weather-exposed regions is challenging at the best of times.

But severe weather events can leave a lasting impact on farming communities, with severe weather events often wreaking havoc on crops, infrastructure and livelihoods. 

This was the harsh reality for Mathew and Sarah Di Mauro, third and fourth-generation sugar cane and watermelon farmers from El Arish on the Cassowary Coast.

In recent times, their journey has been shaped by perseverance as they faced the challenge of disaster recovery following severe weather events that impacted Far North Queensland.

In December 2023, Tropical Cyclone Jasper caused widespread flooding and damage along the Cassowary Coast, affecting crops, infrastructure and access across farms.

A mere 13 months later in January 2025, the region was again swamped by flooding following significant rainfall from the North and Far North Tropical Low.

Flooding from that event exacerbated the significant damage Jasper caused.

Paddocks were washed out, topsoil was stripped away, and debris was scattered across their land, making it difficult to know where to even begin the recovery process.

Matthew described it as a ‘disaster’.

But financial support through the Australian and Queensland Governments’ jointly funded Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) helped the Di Mauros to keep going.

Working closely with the Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority (QRIDA), the Di Mauros secured an Exceptional Disaster Assistance Recovery Grant which provided much needed cash to help them put their farms back together.

The grant helped fund essential clean-up and repair works, allowing the couple to restore damaged paddocks and farm infrastructure to get production back on track. 

Further damage from the January 2025 flood event again saw the Di Mauros apply for DRFA assistance to help them rebuild.

For Mathew and Sarah, QRIDA’s support has been a lifeline, and their story is a testament QRIDA’s vital role in supporting Queensland’s primary producers. 

Through DRFA concessional loans, disaster recovery grants, and personalised regional support, QRIDA is helping farming families grow, adapt, and thrive despite the challenges they face.

Eligible primary producers facing the daunting task of disaster recovery can contact QRIDA through their Disaster Recovery webpage or by calling 1800 623 946.

Producers can also access further DRFA assistance such as freight subsidies and fodder support through Queensland’s Department of Primary Industries.

This story is based on content originally published on QRIDA’s website.