Blazing Trails for Humanitarian Projects in Queensland

Have you ever donated to the Giving Machines around Christmas time? What if you could step directly into the work of one of the charities to see the real impact of your donation?

One such charity in Australia, BlazeAid, supports rural families and farmers affected by natural disasters such as fires, floods, cyclones, and drought. Beyond accepting donations, BlazeAid also welcomes volunteers to experience their work firsthand. Whether clearing debris, rebuilding fences, sharing stories with locals, or cooking a hot meal. There is a role for everyone.

Recently, three couples from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the Brisbane area travelled to Quilpie in south-western Queensland, to see the work BlazeAid does and to assist after the devastating floods of April 2025. Three couples arrived at the BlazeAid camp located on Greenmulla Station in the Channel Country. What they found was a remarkable partnership between charity and community.

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Volunteers camp in motorhomes, tents, and caravans. They begin each day at 7:00 am with a muster to plan tasks and teams. Some head to neighbouring farms, others work on Greenmulla’s fences, while a few stay behind to cook meals, clean, and restock supplies. Everyone contributes willingly, each task vital to the day’s success.

BlazeAid directs nearly 100% of its donations to essential equipment such as trailers, chainsaws, tools, and protective gear. It provides meals and accommodation for volunteers, while local farmers supply fencing materials and fixtures. Together, they create a seamless collaboration of labour and resources.

Steve Hall, manager of Greenmulla, chuckles when he recalls farmers doubting that a group of volunteers could make a difference. “It doesn’t take long for them to realise how wrong they are,” Steve says. Under BlazeAid’s guidance, kilometres of fencing are restored daily, critical in a region that stretches for thousands of kilometres.

The six Brisbane volunteers joined eight other volunteers already stationed at the camp. At times, Blazeaid can host up to 50 volunteers. Jill Byrnes from the Church of Jesus Christ congregation in Rochedale, reflected, “This experience was wonderful – it opened my eyes to people from different walks of life who share the same purpose - to serve.” For these members of the Church, they can saw the teachings of Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ to “love one another,” in action. (Matthew 22:37-39)

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The April 2025 floods submerged over 13 million hectares, and Bob Hall, owner of Greenmulla, lost 3,000 sheep, but said it could have been much worse. 

Despite tragedy, hope endures. For these volunteers, the experience was humbling and unforgettable – a testament to the power of compassion and community spirit.