Tuck into a chicken parma to help Aussie farmers

Pub goers are urged to sink their teeth into a delicious chicken parmigiana this month to help raise money for Aussie farmers doing it tough.

Throughout the month of February, $1 dollar from every chicken parma sold at ALH Hotels across the country will be donated to Rural Aid for the annual Parmer for a Farmer fundraiser.

Money raised from the campaign will help farmers in regional Australia struggling to make ends meet purchase fodder for their hungry livestock, clean drinking water for their families, in-personal mental health counseling, and direct financial support.

Last year’s fundraiser saw a record 113,505 parmigianas sold, equaling $113,505 donated to farmers affected by natural disasters.

ALH Hotels general manager Lukas McKay hopes the community will once again support this worthy cause.

“We hope to build on this success and once again rally Aussies to support farming communities who need our support now as much as ever,” Lukas says.

"Pubs serve as the lifeblood of local and regional communities, playing an invaluable role in bringing people together.

“The chicken parma is our top selling food-item across ALH Hotels and we hope the funds raised can make a real impact.

“So, whether you're enjoying it with a refreshing pale ale, or sharing the moment with family, make it your number one choice throughout the month of February.”

The appeal is off to a good start, with a number of ALH suppliers generously donating $50,000.

Where to grab a parma in Moreton Bay

The humble chicken parma is one of the most popular pub dishes, with chefs serving up platefuls of delicious crumbed chicken breasts topped with Napoli sauce, smoky ham and mozzarella cheese with a side of fries and salad.

More than 300 ALH Hotels across Australia will take part in Parma for a Farmer throughout February, including 11 in Moreton Bay.

These include:

• North Lakes Tavern
• Captain Cook Tavern
• Kallangur Tavern
• Lawnton Tavern
• Petrie Hotel
• Warner Tavern
• Albany Creek Tavern
• Ferny Grove Tavern
• The Club Tavern Caboolture
• Blue Pacific Hotel
• Four Mile Creek Hotel

How the money will help

Rural Aid CEO John Waters says he is thankful for the ongoing support from the Endeavour Group and ALH Hotels.

"These donations make a significant impact, contributing to the well-being and sustainability of rural areas across Australia,” John says.

“Farmers are stoic characters and continue to battle the elements on a daily basis. This much needed support will provide a vital lifeline to help them continue to do what they do best.

“We appreciate ALH’s ongoing commitment through the Parma for a Farmer campaign and welcome every purchase of a classic parma for this important cause."

More than 18,000 primary producers are registered with Rural Aid.

In 2023, Rural Aid provided funding for the installation of 32 water tanks, each valued at $2,890, alongside clean drinking water loads at $600 per fill.

This initiative ensured access to clean water for approximately 32 households, fostering a healthier and more secure environment.

Livestock support also included the delivery of 550 hay bales, as well as direct financial assistance with more than 60 prepaid Visa cards each valued at $1500.