'Time to go beyond just talking about mental health'
Federated Farmers president Wayne Langford says while people are opening about mental health, there’s still disproportionately high rates of suicide and depression in rural communities.
The popular Surfing for Farmers programme, which gives farmers a well-earned break from life on the farm, starts its eighth season from November 5.
This season, it will be offered at 25 beaches across the country, bringing the benefits of surf therapy to even more rural areas.
Stephen Thomson, founder and chairman of Surfing for Farmers, shared his enthusiasm for the upcoming season, saying, “We’re excited to be heading into another year. Surfing for Farmers has grown so much, and it’s amazing to see how it continues to make a real difference for rural communities, especially during hard times.”
With over 8,000 farmers and growers across 25 beaches, the 13-15 week SFF program showcases its tangible impact on the lives of those involved.
What sets SFF apart is its commitment to accessibility, as all equipment, lessons, and refreshments are free of charge. This ensures that the programme remains inclusive and accessible to all individuals who can benefit from it, regardless of their financial circumstances.
The organisers’ message to farmers is “jump in the ute, grab your neighbours and join us for the perfect break and a classic kiwi BBQ”.
The positive effects of just one surf session can go a long way, boosting not only the farmers themselves but also their families and wider communities. With the new season kicking off, Surfing for Farmers aims to help farmers recharge at the beach so they can return to work feeling refreshed—especially after a tough winter.
At the heart of the program are 120 volunteer coordinators, many of whom understand the challenges of rural life.
With the support of premium sponsors Ballance Agri-Nutrients, Bayleys Real Estate, Beef & Lamb New Zealand, Jarden, Rabobank, and Fonterra — Surfing for Farmers continues to grow, reaching more communities each year.
For more details, visit the Surfing for Farmers Facebook page or website.
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon will be fronting farmers at three large public meetings organised by Federated Farmers over the coming weeks.
Federated Farmers and a major Australian-owned bank are at loggerheads over emissions reduction targets set for New Zealand farmer clients.
More locally grown tomatoes are coming to stores this month and you can thank New Zealand greenhouses for that.
Changing skill demands and new job opportunities in the primary sector have prompted Massey University to create a new degree course and add a significant major into another in 2025.
It was bringing in a new Canterbury A&P Association (CAPA) show board, more in tune with the CAPA general committee, that has ensured that Christchurch will have a show this year, says CAPA general committee president Bryce Murray.
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