WE hear a lot about farmers affected by the drought, and activities put on for them to help deal with the stress.
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But one group is looking beyond that and giving the children of those farmers, as well as other kids that may feel isolated, a chance to break free from their worries and just have some fun.
As part of their school holiday program, Early Links Muswellbrook recently took a group of youngsters out to GJ's by the Lake for a day of games and enjoyment.
Recreation therapist, Felicity Smith, said it was an incredible journey and the impact it had on the kids was enormous.
"They just loved it, they all get together and this is the second holidays they've been together, so they've developed friendships and it gives them an outlet," she said.
"They all can go and play outdoors, and Lake Liddell has this beautiful space and they were so accommodating to us."
On top of getting exercise and some fresh air, a number of games were played including laser tag, which was a hugely fun experience for them.
Ms Smith said it was doing more than just giving the children something to smile about for a single day.
"The change in the kids has been huge, they've started off from being really shy to having lots of energy," she said.
"The parents know each other, everybody goes and they know where their friends are and they're constantly screaming for more stuff."
Art, which will feature in a gallery, was made on the day on top of other leisurely events such as bowling, fishing, cooking and gardening.
The event, which was made possible by a BHP grant, was also attended by Variety.