One of the consequences of the speed and ferocity of this week's flooding was the fact many farmers were unable to get their livestock to higher ground.
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We are hearing reports of entire herds being washed away.
Therefore we would like to hear from anyone who has lost stock and anyone who has stray stock on their properties - and hopefully return the livestock to their owners.
Never give up hope the late historian Harry Boyle from Hinton near Maitland told the story that he owned one of the first Friesian cows to arrive in the Hunter Valley unfortunately this much prized animal went missing during the 1955 flood.
In Harry's words he tried desperately to save her attaching a halter and trying to tow her behind the boat he and his wife escaped their flooded property in - but difficulties arose and his wife said it either her or the cow.
"It was a difficult choice but I eventually let the lead go - it was heartbreaking," he said during an interview in the 1980s.
"But guess what days later she was spotted on the verandah of a hotel in Raymond Terrace and she later came home to Hinton in one piece."
Well given that wonderful story we would like to see as many of the missing stock find their way home safely.
Farmers looking for assistance can contact the Singleton Agricultural Support Coordination Centre is open to assistHunter region farmers with animal and agricultural support following recent flooding.
Hunter Local Land Services General Manager, Brett Miners, says farmers with animal emergencies or requiring animal rescues should contact the NSW State Emergency Service (SES) on 132 500 immediately.
“Our Livestock Officer is working with SES Hunter Region to support livestock emergency responses and aerial reconnaissance,” Mr Miners said.
Farmers who require assistance with livestock welfare, transport and fodder requests as well as damage assessments should also contact the SES. All non-emergency requests will then be directed to the Singleton Agricultural Support Coordination Centre for action.
“Our staff will prioritise requests and assist affected farmers to get back on their feet as soon as possible.
“Transport carriers are available and on standby to assist.
“We are also working as part of the Dairy Response Group to provide transport and logistical support for dairy farmers, who have been doubly affected by both floodwaters and power outages affecting milking equipment.
“Dairy farmers who require generators should contact the SES,” Mr Miners said.
In partnership with NSW Department of Primary Industries, Local Land Services is responsible for the coordination of agriculture and animal services in an emergency.
Now we already know of some lost cattle from Glendon near Singleton 19 Hereford x Simmental weaners ( 8 months) with a yellow ear tags in their left ears.
Lets help find the livestock.
