BY DAN RYAN

A group of third year Doctor of Veterinary Medicine students are making headlines for a good cause, with a unique fundraising effort to support RuralAid, a charity dedicated to helping farmers in need.

In a tradition that has spanned more a decade, the students have stripped down for a nude calendar, which aims to raise funds for RuralAid’s essential work with rural communities across Australia. The calendar features a playful portrayal of the students with a variety of Australian animals, from lambs and working dogs to the iconic Highland cows that have become fan favorites.

Emily Principe and Taylor Cole-Howell, two of the event’s organisers, explained that the nude calendar is an important milestone in their journey to becoming veterinarians.

“For us, it’s a fun and lighthearted way to mark the completion of the theoretical component of our degree. The nudity is not only about celebrating this achievement but also about attracting attention to ensure the fundraising initiative gets the ‘buzz’ it needs to raise maximum funds for RuralAid,” they said.

The calendar is not just about fun and games; it serves as a serious fundraising effort. The students have set an ambitious goal of raising $10,000 for RuralAid, with the proceeds helping to support rural farmers who have been affected by natural disasters. RuralAid provides crucial services such as financial aid, fodder assistance, and community programs aimed at creating sustainable futures for farmers.

For Ms Cole-Howell and Ms Principe, supporting a charity that connects to their future careers and their passion for animals was vital.

“As veterinary students, it was important to us that we supported a charity that is closely aligned with animals and agriculture,” they said. “RuralAid is a national charity that steps in to help farmers during tough times, especially when natural disasters hit. Its work is so important in helping our farming communities recover.”

The calendar’s connection to the agricultural sector is significant for the students, with family connections to the land.

“When severe weather events occur, it’s often the farmers who are hit hardest,” Ms Principe and Ms Cole-Howell said. “RuralAid provides direct support to these communities, and as future veterinarians, we will continue to be part of that connection. We’ll be working alongside these farmers, and we hope to continue supporting the work of RuralAid in the years to come.”

RuralAid’s mission to help rural Australia resonates strongly with Camden Vet School students, who understand the vital role agriculture plays in the nation’s economy. By supporting RuralAid, they hope to give back to the communities that will be integral to their future careers as veterinarians.

This year’s calendar promises to be another hit, with its blend of humor, heart, and commitment to a worthy cause. With a fundraising goal of $10,000, the students are hopeful that their efforts will make a lasting impact and provide much-needed assistance to rural farmers across the country.