Paddocks lack an autumn break, dams are low or empty, and stock are being culled from herds - that's the heartbreaking reality facing farmers across West Gippsland.
But there's a human cost - the farmers and their families doing it tough - they're the ones that some in the industry say are the real concern of these prolonged dry conditions.
Rain across the district was a welcome sight on Friday. It will ease some of the short term pressure, fill tanks and dams, and reduce the burden for those buying in water for their herds and dairies.
It was far from drought breaking. And, with financial pressures mounting, Poowong dairy farmer Luke Wallace said there were a lot of farmers struggling mentally.

"There is a lot of pain and suffering going on and we all need to look