Central Coast Council will support a Hunter Water initiative to help drought-affected farmers by donating a water tanker and driver to transport much needed drinking water.

Central Coast, Newcastle and Lake Macquarie City Councils are each donating a truck and driver to transport water from Branxton and Scone across the Hunter and Upper Hunter.

The water will help properties which are not connected to a town supply and need to top up their domestic rainwater tanks.

Council Director Water and Sewer, Bileen Nel said Council was thrilled to contribute to the initiative and would start with an initial delivery of 20,000 litres of drinking water collected from Hunter Water’s Branxton and Scone supplies.

“Farmers from towns including Murrurundi, Merriwa and Cassilis are receiving this support and their feedback is very positive,” Ms Nel said.

“We could not be happier to contribute to an initiative that is making a real difference, with our first deliveries taking place on the 12 and 13 November.”

Mayor Jane Smith said Council had been looking for the best way to provide direct support to farmers in need.

“The Central Coast has been giving so generously to farmers doing it very tough,” Mayor Smith said.

“Across the Coast I hear stories of individuals and groups acting to support our farmers and I want to thank our community for all they have done and will continue to do.

“I am also pleased that Council is helping our farmers in such a tangible and practical way.”

More than 1.4 million litres of water has been donated to 100 properties in need since the initiative began on August 24.

Farmers in the Hunter and Upper Hunter experiencing a shortfall in their domestic water supply are invited to contact Hunter Water’s Drought Support Team – droughtsupport@hunterwater.com.au or 1300 657 657.