Party time puts paid to wakes

Corrigin farmer Des Hickey is looking forward to tonight's street party in the town.

"The mood will be fantastic," the 55-year-old said as he put the finishing touches on a bumper harvest which has already done wonders for the Wheatbelt.

"It has put people back in control of their destiny and that has worried a lot of people. Even up until July this year a lot of people were sitting there thinking, 'If it doesn't rain we are out, we are gone'."

Mr Hickey said he spoke for mates scattered around the Wheatbelt who were under pressure after a run of poor seasons.

"A lot were concerned and lot of pressure was put on them by financiers," he said. "This will settle the dust for them."

Mr Hickey said it would also open the eyes of young farmers to what was possible.

"It is important that young blokes see that you can make money. They are sticking their necks out and a season like this gives them plenty of hope for the future."

Mr Hickey hopes two of his sons, Luke, 26, and Michael, 23, will end up as career farmers. Luke, a diesel mechanic, is helping with the harvest and Michael is working for Elders.