Across the weekend, viewers from around Australia have opened their hearts and their wallets to support our drought-weary farmers, who are experiencing the driest winter on record.

Nine Chief Executive Officer, Hugh Marks, is overwhelmed by the incredible generosity.

“It’s truly inspiring to see how Australians have rallied together to show their support for the drought-affected farmers and farming communities who are doing it tough. To surpass the magic million in just a few days is an astounding achievement and a true testament to the Aussie spirit. We thank you,” he said.

“I’d also like to thank the dedicated Nine staff, right across the country, who have given their time to man the appeal phones. We want the farmers to know that our support for them, and our relief appeal to raise desperately needed funds, continues.”

National Farmers’ Federation President, Fiona Simson, is grateful to those who have heard the needs of our farmers and have given big to help.

“As each day passes without significant rainfall, the situation for our farmers is getting tougher. Fodder is getting more difficult to source, farmers are having to make tough decisions about whether they continue to feed livestock or sell. Farm and household water supplies are drying up. Financial commitments are becoming harder to meet,” Ms Simson said.

“The NFF is now focussed on seeing that the money donated gets to our farmers on the ground to provide the help they need most.”

Donations are being administered by Rotary Australia and will be distributed to the organisations who can address the immediate needs of our farmers with the help of the National Farmers’ Federation. Money raised will assist fodder and water supplies as well as helping farmers’ everyday living expenses including access to health and financial services.

Viewers can continue to donate anytime online via todayshow.com.au. They can also call

1800 732 165 with the donation lines remaining open until 8pm AEST tonight, and again from 5.30am AEST tomorrow.

All donations are tax-deductible.

TODAY will broadcast live from the epicentre of the drought crisis tomorrow morning, Monday, August 6, from 5.30am AEST. Karl Stefanovic and Georgie Gardner will be live at Loomberah Hall just outside Tamworth, North-West NSW, and Sylvia Jeffreys and Tim Gilbert will be in the town centre of Dirranbandi, South-West Queensland.

This special edition will also raise awareness in city communities of just how tough our farmers are doing it and what needs to be done by the State and Federal Governments. With farmers facing the driest winter on record, TODAY will dissect what further assistance must be given.