Special free screenings of Just a Farmer in Colac and Camperdown will highlight the important role of farmers and give local communities a chance to come together.
Dairy Farmers Victoria is hosting the screenings on Wednesday, August 7 in Colac and Friday, August 9 in Camperdown.
The Colac screening is in partnership with the Corangamite Catchment Management Authority and the Camperdown screening is supported by the Gardiner Foundation.
After the screenings, the film’s writer and producer Leila McDougall will lead a Q&A session and share insights into its creation and impact.
The Colac event will feature a presentation from the Let’s Talk Foundation and in Camperdown representatives from the Rural Financial Counselling Service will outline ways they can help farmers.
Dairy Farmers Victoria’s marketing and PR relations coordinator Jazzie Negrello said the events aimed to bring the community together to support and celebrate the vital role of farmers.
“We wanted to host something that would bring the farming community together,” Ms Negrello said.
“Dairy farmers often lack networking opportunities and community events, and with the recent drop in milk prices, there’s no better time to show support for each other.”
Dairy Farmers Victoria is a newly established voluntary organisation dedicated to supporting and promoting the dairy industry within Victoria.
“We work to provide resources, advocacy, and community engagement for all involved in dairy farming and events like this provide a platform to network and share experiences and foster a stronger sense of solidarity among local farmers,” Ms Negrello said.
Dairy Farmers Victoria is encouraging the broader community to attend the screenings to enjoy an acclaimed film and show support for local farmers.
The events are already attracting strong support with more than half the tickets sold for each venue.
Just A Farmer is a poignant and powerful documentary that explores the heart of modern farming through the eyes of those who live and breathe it.
The film delves into the daily challenges and triumphs, and the enduring passion, that drives farmers, capturing their stories with authenticity and empathy.
The events will take place at COPAC and Camperdown Theatre Royal with doors opening at 6.30pm and the screening starting at 7pm.
Dairy Farmers Victoria president Mark Billing will welcome people to the screenings and supper will be provided.
Mr Billing said there was a serious side to the events in spotlighting the roles of Rural Financial Counselling and the Let’s Talk Foundation.
“Some farmers might not be aware of the free support available from these organisations and how they could benefit from reaching out for support,” he said.
To book tickets, go to: https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1261239