Cows for Cambodia

With a rural community in need, it’s our very own Carmen Tuohey and husband Joe who are heading off on a 10-day, over 60s group tour with “Cows for Cambodia”.

“It’s a full-on adventure, not just a holiday. We can’t wait to get started as it’s a chance to do something really special”, says Carmen, Murray Nankivell’s resident Superannuation accountant extraordinaire.

The couple are travelling as a part of a Cows for Cambodia group tour. It’s a grassroots charity based in Siem Reap that helps break the poverty cycle in rural Cambodia – and it all starts with a pregnant cow.

The charity loans pregnant cows to families in need. Once the calf is born, the family raises it as their own, and the original cow returns to their farm to begin the cycle again. Each year, families can sell a calf at the market which can double their annual income. They also use the cow’s manure as fertiliser to boost their crop yields. It’s about creating independence, not dependence.

Carmen explains that they will be given the chance to immerse themselves in the village culture, work with the cows and families plus participate in vaccinations and pregnancy testing of the cows at the farm. They’ll have the opportunity to cook a nutritious meal for 400 school students at one of the local village schools and help run an English lesson for the kids. 

The money they are raising will also assist in purchasing more cows for the program plus other vital items that keep the charity running including medication, vaccinations, vet bills, hay, rice powder and equipment. 

“We can't wait to be part of this group of like-minded individuals who will be volunteering time to help make life just that little bit easier for the rural families of Cambodia”, says Carmen. 

The couple will also help build a house for a family in need and be a part of the world-famous rice run delivering over 3,000 kilograms of rice to those who need it most.

Carmen and Joe will also be taking some small gift bags to distribute to the children and families, such as stationery and school supplies. 

“I’ll be asking my grandchildren to donate some of their excess toys and stationery and then I intend to show them photos on our return, of who we give their items to, so that they can understand what they are doing and how they are helping children who are less fortunate.

“We will also be taking some personal care items such as hair products and shower products such as shampoo and soap that are greatly appreciated, especially by the women in the village,” added Carmen.

Cows for Cambodia was started by Cosi (Andrew Costello), beloved SA TV personality, radio DJ and former farmer. The charity is essentially a “COW BANK” providing an opportunity for families to break the poverty cycle rather than giving direct handouts.

For Carmen and Joe, it’s an opportunity to get up close with the charity’s projects, see the difference their fundraising makes and experience Cambodia in a way most tourists never do. 

“We will be putting on our working clothes and getting a bit dusty”, adds Carmen, “but I’m sure we will walk away with a full heart and memories that will stick with us forever.”

To find out more about the work of Cows for Cambodia, visit their website at https://www.cowsforcambodia.com.

Stay tuned as Carmen and Joe have promised to share photos and stories of their incredible adventure upon their return!