Dry run turns into soap opera

By Paul Dunlop
FARMERS affected by the drought can wash away some of the stress — with thanks to a bighearted group of local women.
The Pakenham branch of the CWA has answered a statewide call for donations of toiletries that can be made into packs and distributed to areas where the Big Dry is hurting hardest.
Soaps, shampoo and conditioner, hand and body lotion, toothpaste, moisturisers and other products are being collected to give farmers — and their wives — some muchneeded relief.
Pakenham CWA branch’s acting secretary Chris Johnson said donations from the community were most welcome.
“We would like to make this a worthwhile effort and have decided to have a drought relief appeal and ask our community for its support,” Mrs Johnson said.
“Flyers have been distributed throughout Pakenham for display in shop windows, in office tearooms and to local organisations in the hope that we can gather the muchneeded items and really help those in dire situations.
“Many items have already been received but we would like more,” Mrs Johnson said.
CWA members will be at the Pakenham Place shopping centre plaza on Friday, 23 February between 9am and 2pm to collect further donations.
For further information, contact Chris Johnson on 5941 1625.