Nomads spend honeymoon as caretakers on drought-affected farms
NEW YORK: Multigenerational nomads are creating a life as caretakers on drought affected farms and rural properties.
It’s been a honeymoon with a difference for South Australian farmers Meg and Ollie Clothier.
Instead of the usual two-week trip to an exotic or far-away location, the young couple decided to dedicate 2020 to drought-affected farmers across the country.
“We wondered how we could help things,” Mr Clothier said.
In the 12 months since they set off, the Two Young Nomads, as they are known, have clocked up more than 35,000 kilometres as volunteer caretakers.
For anywhere between one week and 10 days, the young couple caretakes a property, giving the owners a much-needed break.
While they are at a property, the Clothiers essentially take on the role of the grazier.
They feed the stock, check water points and fence lines, feed pets and water the gardens.
“We’re doing pretty much everything that they need to keep the show running, so they can go away.”
For the graziers getting some time away, what the Clothiers are doing eases a massive burden on their shoulders.
Brendan McNamara runs sheep and cattle on a property south-west of Hughenden, more than 1,400 kilometres from Brisbane.
He has benefited firsthand from the Clothiers’ work and said having them caretake the property was “critical”.
“They’re a great young couple and they need to be commended for what they’re doing,” Mr McNamara said.
With the drought still stretching on, Mr McNamara said being able to leave his property and see different landscapes made a huge difference to his mental health.
“Most of us are pretty time-poor on properties these days, and to be able to get away for a period of time is great,” he said.
“It’s probably not good for your head, if you want to put it that way.”
While the idea of living and working with your better half may be anxiety-inducing for some, Mr Clothier says it has been an adventure they will not forget.
“It’s been crazy,” he said
The Clothiers will soon finish at their last property for 2020 in the Northern Territory before heading home for Christmas and some much-needed time with their families.
At this stage, the couple isn’t sure if they will continue as the Two Young Nomads, but Ms Clothier said there were still plenty of opportunities to help farmers.
“The drought is not over,” she said.
“There are still places that are being hit very hard and there are still lots of people that need a break.”