Growers and community members around Moora can join Australian cricketing legend Brad Hogg for a sundowner event this Thursday, May 30.
In his role as Grain Producers Australia’s (GPA) National Mental Health Ambassador, Brad will bring together the local community for an opportunity to take a break from work, connect and de-stress after a busy seeding period.
The farming region around Moora in Western Australia’s Northern Wheatbelt, have experienced a tough 2023 season and a dry start to 2024.
The Moora Chamber of Commerce is hosting the sundowner along with GPA, to give local community members an opportunity to support each other in this challenging period.
Chair, Julie Walsh, said the local community was very strong and resilient, and having Brad speak at the sundowner was an exciting event that will make for a good social night out.
“Our sundowner at the Moora Performing Arts Centre where Brad Hogg will speak about his personal and professional journey, will give our community a much-needed opportunity for connection and a break from work at the end of seeding,” she said.
There is no cost for entry, with some refreshments and light nibbles provided on the night.
GPA Chair, Barry Large, is also a grain and sheep producer in the local Moora community with his farm, Moorlands, located at nearby Miling.
“For many, 2023 was a tough year and we’re yet to get that season break we all need to boost our confidence for the 2024 season,” he said.
“Often we all opt to work harder and longer in challenging periods, but this is not sustainable for good mental health and we’re encouraging everyone to be proactive and take some time away from work with friends and family.”
“Our event in Moora will get everyone out of the office, off their property and into a relaxed atmosphere where we can have a chat.”
Supported by NuFarm, Rural Aid, GrainGrowers and Lifeline, GPA’s Farming Mates Mental Health initiative was established in 2022.
GrainGrowers Chair, and WA grower Rhys Turton said his organisation was proud to back the Moora event and the GPA’s Farming Mates Mental Health Initiative.
“Mental health is important to our members and the broader community and events such as this allow us to have some valuable conversations around this issue,” he said.
“While growers are resilient to a point, issues outside their control such as the current tough seasonal conditions across WA, input costs and markets can all contribute to a less visible emotion burden.
Checking in on your mates and learning from mental health advocates like “Hoggy” can all help to make a real difference."
Brad’s role as GPA’s Health Ambassador allows him to visit regional communities throughout Australia, to share important messages which help to raise greater awareness about the importance of mental health, and to reduce stigmas.
Last year, about 20 different community events were held across the nation, shared with GPA’s State Members, and other event partners. These local events are also supported professionally by members of Rural Aid’s Mental Health and Wellbeing Team.
Event details:
What: An evening with Brad Hogg.
Where: Moora Performing Arts Centre, Padbury Street, Moora.
When: Thursday 30 May, from 5-8pm.
RSVP: secretary@moorachamber.com.au 0428 511 268
More information available via www.moora.com.au
Mental Health Resources: HERE
ENDS
Further Information:
GPA Chair Barry Large: 0427 549 023
GPA Chief Executive Colin Bettles: 0439 901 970
GGL Media Manager Chris Rowley: 0415 140 253
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