Film screening to shine light on rural mental health issues and community support services

NORTH Coast Local Land Services will shine a light on rural mental health with a community screening of the Australian film Just a Farmer at Pearces Creek Hall on Wednesday, 6 May.

The screening forms part of the local North Coast Farming Forum, which aims to build resilience within farming systems and rural communities.

The 2024 film tells a personal and emotional story of rural life, highlighting both the challenges and triumphs experienced by farming families across Australia.

North Coast Local Land Services representative Navanka Fletcher said the screening is designed to create a safe space for open dialogue within the community.

“It’s an important reminder of what many farming families go through behind the scenes.” she said.

“It reflects the ups and downs of agricultural life and the importance of talking about mental health in a way that removes stigma and encourages support.

“In rural communities, we know suicide rates are significantly higher, and we also know that starting these conversations can be difficult.

“This screening is about a space where people feel comfortable talking, listening and connecting. It’s about reminding people they’re not alone.”

The event is supported by the Rural Adversity Mental Health Program, which provides free support services and outreach across regional communities.

Pearces Creek Hall, which has a capacity of 80 people, has been chosen to encourage an intimate and supportive setting for the screening.

Previous screenings of Just a Farmer have been held in regional centres across Australia, attracting strong community and industry engagement.

Fletcher said the screening complements the broader focus of the farming forum on resilience and adaptation in agriculture.

“This isn’t just about farming practices or systems, it’s also about people,” she said.

“Personal resilience is a huge part of adapting to agriculture, especially with the challenges we’re seeing like floods, droughts and other pressures on production.

“We’re hoping this event not only raises awareness but helps strengthen the connections that keep rural communities strong and resilient.”Registration for tickets can be made at events.humanitix.com

The film discusses themes such as suicide, for support contact Lifeline on 13 11 14, or Beyond Blue at 1300 22 4636.