Growers unite to help one of their own after motorbike accident

The Upper Namoi Cotton Grower Association has helped a fellow grower to continue enjoying the little things like a beer at the local pub after a motorbike accident left him disabled.

Grant Baker suffered a motorcycle accident leaving him paralysed from the chest down. Family and friends rallied around him to ensure he could continue farming on his property in the Carroll and Breeza districts but there were some things outside he found more difficult.

Catching up with friends and neighbours at the local Curlewis pub for a beer or two became difficult because there was no disabled toilet.

Not to be deterred, the publican used some of his own money and funds from a drought fund but they were still short of the amount required so the Upper Namoi CGA came to the rescue raising $14,000 at their annual awards night auction.

With the necessary funds raised the pub now has its own disabled toilet block and Grant can enjoy the company of his fellow growers and a few beers whenever he has time.

The President of the Upper Namoi CGA is Peter Lennox was the driving force behind the initiative. “Grant’s a great bloke and to be able to help out in this way has been satisfying. We get to have a beer with Grant and he’s able to enjoy all the locals who form part of this tight-knit community.”

The Curlewis pub
The Curlewis pub
The newly built disabled toilets at the Curlewis pub
The newly built disabled toilets at the Curlewis pub

Latest News

Aug 07, 2025

Cotton Collective 2025 - a resounding success

More than 200 growers, industry representatives, sponsors and suppliers attended...

Aug 04, 2025

Gwydir Valley Irrigators Association celebrates 30th birthday in Moree

Formed in 1995, the Gwydir Valley Irrigators Association (GVIA) has...

Jul 31, 2025

Cotton Australia Joins Global Study Tour in Brazil

Cotton Australia’s myBMP Manager, Rob Crothers, recently took part in...

Jul 31, 2025

Growers Provide Input as Grower’s Voice and Carbon Chat Tour Gets Underway

Growers in Central Queensland have provided solid feedback on key...

Jul 24, 2025

Meetings with Qld Minister Highlight Industry Priorities and Opportunities

Cotton Australia had two opportunities to engage with the Qld...

Jul 24, 2025

Growers Meet with MDBA CEO Ahead of Basin Plan Evaluation Release

Cotton Australia General Manager had an opportunity to join Darling...