Forbes on the brink after years of drought
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After seven years of drought, residents of Forbes in central-west NSW are concerned about what the future may hold. (Getty Images: Ian Waldie)
Some good recent rain has given drought-affected farmers in New South Wales and Victoria some hope that this year's wheat crop may get them out of trouble.
But it is not just the farmers relying on the crop.
After seven years of drought, residents of Forbes in central-west New South Wales are concerned about what the future may hold.
Graham Falconer owns and runs the local rural supplies business in Forbes and over the past seven years his debt has increased as large companies have not been able to pay their bills.
He says some of them have not made a payment for up to three years.
"We've had a lot of major companies come into the area which have gone bankrupt and they have left a massive amount of debt behind them for rural retail stores like ourselves," Mr Falconer said.
"It is unlikely that we will see the approximately, about $500,000 from [one] firm alone."
But while some farmers are struggling, there is hope for others.
South-west of Forbes at Warren Lander's property the wheat crop is just above knee height and is a beautiful dark green.
It is the first time in many years that many farmers in the district have had what looks like a good wheat crop.
"We are hoping for at least an average crop," said Mr Lander.
"If we could just get an average wheat crop ... it will definitely be able to help the situation out a fair bit."
"If there isn't a crop this year, people would definitely be leaving I think, and the worst thing about it, it is not on their terms."
Marg Duggan owns and runs Forbes's local women's underwear and sleepwear shop.
She says her business is relying on this year's crop.
"Trade would have to be down 30 to 40 per cent to what one would want it to be," Ms Duggan said.
"If this crop doesn't come through this season, I think it will break a lot of people."
Based on a report by AM's Brigid Glanville.
