GREY nomads are lending a hand on the land in outback Australia in ever increasing numbers.

Hundreds of volunteers have joined a national programme to offer their services on isolated stations and rural properties.

Over the past two years they have assisted for two to three weeks with everything, from computing to childminding, accounting and fencing.

Volunteers range from retired farmers to plumbers and senior travellers taking a break during round-Australia sojourns.

Charleville-based coordinator for Frontier Services Davida Mellsham told media that more travellers than ever were offering to help out.

"We have about 780 volunteers on our books," he said.

"Not all volunteers are active at any one time of course, but it's quite a pool to be dipping into for people that need a hand.

"Frequently, the most urgent request from rural families, apart from rain, is for someone to fulfil a short-term need so that they can continue trying to run their properties."

For more information, visit the Frontier Services website at http://www.frontierservices.org/index.htm

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