Weather it Together launches after South Australia’s record dry
After one of the driest periods in South Australia’s history, a new farmer-led campaign has been launched to encourage farmers to take care of themselves and each other during challenging seasons.
Weather it Together is a grassroots movement encouraging people on the land to take care of themselves and each other, no matter what the season throws at them.
Driven by Associate Professor Kate Gunn and the ifarmwell team at the University of South Australia, the campaign promotes four simple but powerful actions- Keep Connected, Focus on what you can control, Get Active, and Ask for Help.
“Farmers are used to facing challenges and solving problems – they’ve done so for generations, but they should not feel they have to face them alone,” said Associate Professor Gunn.
Having grown up on a farm near Streaky Bay, Kate understands first-hand how tough uncertainty can feel.
“Although parts of the state have now enjoyed some rain, unfortunately that rain has not washed all of the worries away,” she says. “It can take a long time for farming families to recover financially and emotionally.
Findings from previous droughts suggest that the full emotional impact of drought does not actually peak until the most intense dry period is over, so this campaign will be relevant and important for some time.”
“You’re Not Alone – No Matter What The Season Throws At You”
Helping coordinate the campaign is former ABC rural journalist, Annabel Ottens (Homer), and Caltowie farmer, Ben Lehmann.
“This campaign is about saying, ‘you’re not alone’ – no matter what the season throws at you,” Ben said.
“It’s important we remind each other that speaking up about your challenges not only helps you, but it might open the door for a mate to do the same.”
Weather it Together will roll out across regional TV, radio, print and online, before spreading into community hubs, pubs, GP clinics and service stations – anywhere farmers gather.
Numerous industry groups are backing the campaign, including Primary Producers SA, Grain Producers SA, Livestock SA and the SA Dairyfarmers’ Association.
Primary Producers SA Chair Professor Simon Maddocks said, “This campaign is farmer-focused, evidence-based and timely. It’s about embracing hope, reminding each other that there are practical things you can do to make yourself feel more positive when things get tough, and instilling the message –
‘We’ve made it this far – we’ll weather it together.’”
For more information, visit weatherittogether.org.au
