Drought ravaged landscape near Bothwell, Tasmania. Storm clouds gather over an abadoned farmworker’s cottage, but it arrives, all too late and too little, to make much difference. The rain lasted but 10 minutes.

Tasmania is in the midst of one of the severest and longest droughts on record. The whole state was brought under interim drought declaration from September 2007, with parts of the Midlands, East Coast and Flinders Island declared to be in Exceptional Circumstances from that date. There has been well below average rainfall since that time, and it is estimated that sheep properties in the drought-affected areas are now carrying 30-40% of normal stocking rates. The drought is having serious impacts not only on livestock but also on the health and welfare of the rural community.

To some drought is just a natural part of the business and lifestyle of farming, it comes with the territory, and should be managed and treated as such. To others drought is an aberrant natural phenomenon beyond the control of even the best farming operator, and support should be provided accordingly. Whatever the truth of the matter, the real effects of drought on real people can be devastating and profound.

Drought is about more than land and animals. Drought is also not just about the mechanics and business of farming, but about people, about health and wellbeing, about education, community welfare, social cohesion, rural living, and about all the aspects of life that humans are involved in.

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Canon 40D IS 18-55 tonemapped with processing emphasis on creating a gloomy picture.