Farmers Day Out event organisers Genevieve Gleadow, Anna Toland and Liz Hayes.
A free day out designed to support farmers will be held in Benalla on Saturday, August 15.
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The event follows a similar one held last year, Farmers Day Out 2025, which was created to provide a free community event designed to support the mental health and wellbeing of farmers experiencing hardship due to drought and rural stressors.
The day will hear from Mike Rolls who contracted a life-threatening disease and endured multiple amputations, and business partner Ben Pettingill who lost most of his eyesight while a teenager.
In classic, self-deprecating Aussie humour the two sometimes describe their team approach to public speaking as “Legless and blind”.
Striking a balance between humour and talking the tough stuff, the duo blend the light-hearted with the serious, weaving together real life anecdotes with research-backed strategies
Mike has a background in the health industry and is a qualified counsellor.
Organiser and sheep producer Anna Toland said the day of connection, entertainment and community was intended to provide a meaningful break from the pressures of farm life.
Last year’s event was so well received that they decided to run it annually.
Ms Toland said a highlight of the day would be guest speakers Mike and Ben from Real Life Resilience.
"Navigating the landscape of mental health in the workplace is their speciality.
“Mike and Ben possess invaluable insights into preparing for and managing challenges. When it comes to fostering a mentally resilient workforce, they are your ultimate allies.”
Held at Benalla Community Lakeside Centre (Red Gum Room) on Saturday, August 15, between noon and 4pm, Farmers Day Out offers a relaxed and welcoming space for conversation, support and shared experiences.
“This day is about reminding our farmers they’re not alone, and that there is strength in sharing stories and leaning on each other,” Ms Toland said.
The event will also include a free luncheon and refreshments, access to support services and wellbeing resources.
The day is set to provide a vital opportunity for connection, respite and community support, aiming to strengthen social ties, reduce isolation and promote positive mental health and wellbeing across the rural community.
The event aims to create a meaningful boost to community mental health and social wellbeing by providing a rare opportunity for connection, relaxation, and shared experience in a rural setting.
The event will directly address challenges such as social isolation, financial pressure, and the ongoing stressors associated with farming life by offering a welcoming space where individuals and families can step away from daily demands and reconnect with others.
Mike Rolls and Ben Pettingill will be speaking at the Farmers Day Out.
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