Harvesting health is here
What started as one simple idea has grown into a community event with the potential to make a lasting difference across our region.
Which has drawn support from as far afield as New York to make sure it happens – with the Thomson family based there contributing $12,000 to underwrite the event.
Mr Thomson was born in Torrumbarry but has been living in the US for a long time.
The Harvesting Health Event (HHE) was born from a desire to create something positive for local farming and rural communities – an opportunity for people to step away from the daily pressures of work, connect with others, and focus on their health, wellbeing and future.
It will be held in the Gunbower Butter Factory on Thursday August 13 from 10am-2pm.
HHE event coordinator Mel Taylor says living and working in rural Australia comes with unique challenges.
Mel says long hours, unpredictable seasons, financial pressures and isolation can often mean looking after yourself falls to the bottom of the list.
She says HHE aims to change that by creating a welcoming space where people can learn, laugh, connect and leave feeling supported.
“The event brings together an incredible line-up of guest speakers and industry experts covering topics which matter most to rural families,” Mel says.
“From mental health and resilience to succession planning, financial wellbeing, physical health and practical strategies for navigating life's challenges, attendees will hear from professionals who understand the realities of regional living,” she adds.
Inspirational keynote speaker Warren Davies, known as The Unbreakable Farmer, will share his powerful story of resilience and hope.
He’ll be joined by a panel of local experts, giving attendees the opportunity to ask questions and gain practical advice that can make a real difference both personally and professionally.
But Mel says HHE is about much more than the presentations, it’s also about reconnecting with neighbours, catching up with old friends, meeting new people and strengthening the sense of community so vital in rural Australia.
“Thanks to the incredible generosity of our sponsors and local businesses, attendees will also have the chance to win a fantastic range of lucky door prizes and giveaways throughout the day,” she explains.
“From local produce and gift packs to vouchers and experiences, the prizes are just another way our community is coming together to support one another.
“Events like this simply wouldn’t be possible without the support of businesses which believe in giving back to the communities which support them.
“Sponsorship not only helps make the event accessible but also demonstrates a genuine commitment to the health and wellbeing of regional Australia.”
Whether you’re a farmer, business owner, employee, retiree or simply someone who wants to be part of a positive community event, Harvesting Health Event will welcome you.
Tickets are essential and numbers are limited. To secure your place or to find out more about sponsorship opportunities, go to www.harvestinghealthevent.com.au
HHE sponsors are: Echuca Regional Health, Lockington & District Bush Nursing Centre, The Thomson family, Look Over the Farm Gate, National Centre for Farmer Health, Elders Echuca, Coolabah Turf, Morrison & Sawers Lawyers, The Gunbower Butter Factory, McLean Farms, Moama Bakery, Rich Glen, Circle T, Yield Insurance Co, Hip Pocket Echuca, Zoe's Little Flower Farm, Homestead Collective Photography, M&S Accounting, Pinnacle Finance, Echuca Skin & Health Group, Cindy Power Photography, Red Gum Review and the Gunbower and District Development Group.
