With the dry climate in the back of everyone’s mind, the field days had an important focus on mental health.
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Champion axeman and health advocate for Atlantic Oils David Foster spent all three days talking to visitors about their health.
He said with people doing it tough across the countryside it was important to check in with your mates.
“It’s close to my heart, my dad died at 61, he was a classic old fella and never got check ups or went to the doctor,” Mr Foster said.
“He missed so much of life.
“Things might be tough today, but tomorrow is another day.
“Don’t be ashamed to talk to a mate or if you’ve got a mate you think think is struggling give them a call, take them for coffee – it’s important.”
Southern NSW farmer John Harper of Mate Helping Mate, said when the going gets tough – the simplest thing to do is for people to reach out and help each other early.
“Prevention is better than a cure,” he said. “Showing you care can change the course of actions.”
On Wednesday, Murrumbidgee Primary Health Network, Wellways and Greater Hume Shire launched the ‘Growing Hope’ suicide and mental health resource.
Mayor Heather Wilton said it was a vital resource for remote communities, especially during tough times.
“None of us are by ourselves when we talk about suicide and mental health,” she said.
“My family is no different, anyone here has likely been touched by suicide or mental health in our lives.”
Local Henty Heath Advisory Committee chair Mick Broughan works promoting mental health with Billabong High.
“We help students know there is a great deal of support available... but to get support someone has to know what’s going on,” he said.