Episode Synopsis:
In this heartfelt special edition of Built in the Bush, host Tanya returns to her hometown of Quilpie, a resilient rural community in Western Queensland, now grappling with the aftermath of unprecedented floods. She is joined by Quilpie Mayor Ben Hall, who shares raw insights from the ground—on how the disaster is impacting locals, the recovery efforts underway, and most importantly, how Australians can offer meaningful help.

Ben unpacks the real needs of the community, highlighting why direct donations of goods can often do more harm than good, and urging supporters to channel funds through local businesses and trusted organizations like CWA and GIVIT. From boundary fences to local jobs, Ben paints a vivid picture of how deeply the floods have disrupted life in Quilpie and what recovery truly looks like in the bush.

Listeners are also given a glimpse of hope as the town rallies around plans to hold the beloved Mungerannie Rodeo, a symbol of local spirit and survival. This episode is a vital call to action for anyone who values regional Australia and the food it produces.

Episode Breakdown:

• [00:00 – 02:00] Welcome & context: Tanya introduces the episode, Quilpie’s devastation, and the importance of rural recovery for all Australians
• [02:00 – 05:00] Mayor Ben Hall joins: Updates on the current situation, community resilience, and the early stages of recovery
• [05:00 – 09:00] How to help: Why donating items can cause issues, and how vouchers and local business support are far more effective
• [09:00 – 13:00] Economic impact: The invisible crisis hitting small businesses and why keeping money flowing locally is essential
• [13:00 – 16:00] Donation channels: GIVIT and CWA as key platforms; call for tech-savvy support to improve rural donation logistics
• [16:00 – 18:00] Emotional toll & the path forward: Damaged fencing, lost livelihoods, and the urgent need to sustain rural jobs
• [18:00 – 20:00] Looking ahead: Hopes to proceed with the Mungerannie Rodeo as a morale boost and Ben’s final message to supporters

Key Takeaway:
Supporting flood-impacted communities like Quilpie isn't just about donations—it's about doing it in a way that keeps rural economies alive. Buy vouchers, donate through trusted platforms, and when safe, visit and spend locally.