Mr Wood is currently touring with play called Carpe Diem that is funded by a part of the package. The performance highlights issues of mental health in the bush, and it is a program that he thinks is doing some great work among stressed regional communities.

“We’ve melted a few hearts so far, and it is good,” Mr Wood said.

“We’ve played the bigger towns in the past, but this the first time where you’re actually sitting in a room and you can see everybody’s face. It’s been wonderful.”

Senator Williams said it was very important that the programs were brought to his attention.

“You get to see the nuts and bolts of what these people are doing to literally save lives,” Senator Williams said.

“People get under a lot of pressure on the land, droughts, financial problems, low commodity prices, you name it. It all adds up to the ducks lined up to disaster.

“I’ll be doing my utmost to see that the funding is continued. And if Barnaby can’t get to one of these shows, I want to get a DVD of it so he can sit down and watch it.”

Interrelate has provided support to the drought effected communities in Far West NSW since July 2014, and hopes that eventuates. On Wednesday chief executive officer for the community based, not-for-profit organisation, Patricia Occelli, said she was extremely disappointed with the government’s decision.

“We are just one of many community service organisations who will be impacted by these cuts. Where will our clients go for help once these services have been withdrawn?” she asked.

“We know that for many of our clients, the drought is far from over and our staff have seen firsthand the emotional toll continued drought has taken on individuals, families, relationships and communities.”