Rain might have brought some relief, but far more is needed to get drought-stricken communities back on their feet.
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In the meantime, Currabubula is hosting an event which will bring a different type of relief - comic relief.
Comedian Rob Carlton will be visiting the Currabubula Village Hall on March 13 (and Nundle Memorial Hall on March 14) to entertain locals with a free show.
His act is called 'One night - four stories. One wrong, one brave, one heartfelt and one inspiring!'
The event is part of the state-wide What a Relief! tour, which has been extended to include an additional 12 shows across the New England North West region from March 10 to March 22.
Other venues include Manilla, Baan Baa, Gum Flat, Walcha, Uralla, Nundle and Wallabadah.
"We are thrilled to have Rob Carlton visit our village ... there will be a free barbecue after the event as well," Currabubula Advisory Group chair Veronica Filby said.
The acts will vary from town to town, but Rob Carlton will bring his one-man show to Currabubula.
Drought and bushfire have left their mark ... while we have a focus on water security and the clean-up of destroyed properties, it is as important we look after people's mental wellbeing
- Minister for Mental Health Bronnie Taylor
Minister for Mental Health Bronnie Taylor said the comedy shows give communities who have been hit hard by the drought the permission to enjoy a few hours of socialising and laughter.
Counsellors, primary healthcare nurses, rural financial counsellors and Local Land Services will be on hand at every stop of the tour to provide support to communities, Ms Taylor said.
"Drought and bushfire have left their mark on northern NSW communities and while we have a focus on water security and the clean-up of destroyed properties," she said.
"It is as important we look after people's mental wellbeing.
"Across the tour, counsellors will mix with guests after each comedy performance, to engage in conversations and connect people with the counselling services available long after the tour ends."
People over the age of 16 can attend the What A Relief! comedy tour and Mrs Filby said tickets can be bought online.
Police and crime reporter at the Newcastle Herald. Email: afalkenmire@austcommunitymedia.com.au
Police and crime reporter at the Newcastle Herald. Email: afalkenmire@austcommunitymedia.com.au
