In addition to their drone prize, each competition winner has been able to nominate a cause close to their heart to receive a $500 donation.

The prize will be a useful addition to the farm and will help to speed up basic tasks and obtain valuable visual information on crops, pastures, livestock and infrastructure.

The winners entered through their local Elders branch by purchasing over a threshold amount of farm supplies within a certain period and received a Parrot Bebop Pro Drone as their prize, offering a new perspective on their farming operations.

Not only have they gained a useful on-farm tool, but they also gained an opportunity to support charities important to them and their local communities.

The $500 donations went to a range of organisations and causes that provide support and services to rural communities across New South Wales and Queensland.

Local winner Frank Blacklock, who won through Elders’ Julia Creek Branch, nominated the Royal Flying Doctor Service to receive the $500 donation.

The Royal Flying Doctor Service provides primary health care and 24-hour emergency service to people over an area of 7.69 million square kilometres.

Elders General Manager North Zone, Greg Dunne, said the initiative reflected Elders’ focus on supporting rural and regional communities through partnerships and local fundraising.

“We build long-term relationships with our clients and while everyone loves winning a prize, the donation is what really makes a difference,” he said.

Mr Dunne said people out here give a lot to their communities.

“And for Elders it’s important that we applaud and support our clients’ charitable efforts, as they in turn continue to support us,” he said.

“We’re happy that we can provide great services and expertise for our clients’ farming operations and then continue to support them beyond the paddock.”