GPA’s Farmer Mates Mental Health program is proudly releasing a new podcast series, to help provide more resources to support our important goals, and help make a difference, by increasing awareness and reducing stigmas on mental health and suicide, in farming communities.
The Mates Mental Health Podcast series covers eight episodes with a range of special guests – each from varied life experiences and expertise – all discussing different areas of mental health. This includes the opening episode with GPA FMMH National Ambassador, Brad Hogg, sharing his important insights and persona, experiences, with mental health.
GPA is working to connect rural and remote Australians to create better mental health outcomes and supports.
Join host Emily Sullivan, an aspiring student psychologist who's upbringing in rural Queensland has been shaped by the challenges of droughts and flooding, to cover the uncomfortable, the inspiring and the practical conversations about mental health and wellbeing.
The Mates Mental Health Podcast is the natural evolution of the Farmer Mates Mental Health Initiative, this time taking conversations had at Field Days and events since 2022, direct to you.
GPA is proud to have the support of Nufarm Australia and other partners, such as Lifeline Australia, Rural Aid and the GRDC, top help bring this podcast series together – and continue hosting events with Brad Hogg and others, in regional communities in 2025. HERE
Open Conversations about mental health with Brad Hogg
In this debut episode, host Emily Sullivan dives into the crucial topic of fostering open conversations about mental health. Joined by Australian cricketer and mental health advocate Brad Hogg, they discuss the unique mental health challenges faced by rural men. With a focus on overcoming stigma, isolation, and the pressures of self-reliance, they explore actionable ways to create an environment where mental health can be openly discussed and supported. Together, they highlight essential resources that rural communities can use to promote wellbeing and encourage men to seek help when needed.
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This episode discusses topics related to mental health. If you’re feeling vulnerable, please take care while listening and seek support. A list of support services can be found HERE.
Mental health first aid
with Dr Jakqui Barnfield - Mental Health First Aid Australia
Hear from Mental Health First Aid Australia's Dr Jakqui Barnfield as we explore the concept of Mental Health First Aid—what it is and why it’s especially crucial in rural communities. Jakqui and host Emily Sullivan cover key strategies for recognising the signs of mental distress, along with practical techniques and language to support someone who may be in crisis.
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This episode discusses topics related to mental health. If you’re feeling vulnerable, please take care while listening and seek support. A list of support services can be found HERE.
When and how to help
with Roger Hitchcock - Rural Aid Australia
Recognising when and how to help a mate can be hard to determine, but is often the all important first step. Rural Aid Australia Counsellor Roger Hitchcock joins host Emily Sullivan to identify the key signs that someone may need support, effective ways to offer help, and how to guide them in seeking further assistance. Their practical discussion provides useful tips, tricks and handy phrases to keep in your back pocket for those moments when a mate might need you.
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This episode discusses topics related to mental health. If you’re feeling vulnerable, please take care while listening and seek support. A list of support services can be found HERE.
Checking in with your own wellbeing
with rural psychologist Chantal Corish
In this episode, rural psychologist and Queensland cotton farmer Chantal Corish shares her insights on rural mental health, drawing from nearly two decades of experience in rural Australia. She discusses with host Emily Sullivan the challenges faced by rural communities and offers practical advice for maintaining mental wellbeing.
Chantal also delves into her PhD research on psychological safety in cotton farming teams, highlighting the importance of supportive work environments in agriculture . Her work aims to improve mental health outcomes and foster resilience among farmers and rural workers.
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This episode discusses topics related to mental health. If you’re feeling vulnerable, please take care while listening and seek support. A list of support services can be found HERE.
Capacity Building in Rural Communities
with Nathan Mercurio - Rural and Remote Mental Health
In this episode of the Mates Mental Health Toolbox, host Emily Sullivan speaks with Nathan Mercurio from Rural and Remote Mental Health about what it takes to build lasting mental health support in rural communities.
Nathan brings deep experience working alongside local leaders and shares how community-driven solutions can make the biggest impact—especially when it comes to tackling stigma, encouraging help-seeking, and ensuring support systems stick. They discuss the importance of trust, cultural understanding, and creating programs that are built with communities, not just for them.
If you're looking for practical ways to strengthen mental health support where it’s needed most, this conversation is full of insights on what works—and why local leadership matters.
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​This episode discusses topics related to mental health. If you’re feeling vulnerable, please take care while listening and seek support. A list of support services can be found HERE.
Creating conversation with Maddie Mortimer
Supportive conversations are at the heart of strong mental health communities. This episode explores how open, honest chats can break down stigma, strengthen relationships, and create a space where proactive support can grow.
Joining host Emily Sullivan is Maddie Mortimer, who shares her insights on the emotional and social impact of mental health, and the power of simply reaching out. Maddie shares insights from her own experiences, highlighting the importance of community support and proactive engagement in mental health care. This conversation serves as a reminder that sometimes, the most impactful support we can offer is simply being willing to talk and listen.
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​This episode discusses topics related to mental health. If you’re feeling vulnerable, please take care while listening and seek support. A list of support services can be found HERE.
Connecting Farmers to Mental Health Resources with GRDC Western Panel Chair Gary Lang
Host Emily Sullivan is joined by Grains Research and Development Corporation Western Panel Chairman Gary Lang to talk about connecting farmers to essential mental health resources. They focus on the unique mental health challenges faced by the agricultural sector, they explore practical strategies for initiating meaningful conversations and overcoming the barriers that prevent farmers from seeking help. Drawing from his experience as both a farmer and a mental health advocate, Gary offers valuable insights on how communities and organizations can actively support the well-being of farmers.
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This episode discusses topics related to mental health. If you’re feeling vulnerable, please take care while listening and seek support. A list of support services can be found HERE.
Creating a Long-Term Mental Health Focus for Rural Communities
with Barry Large - GPA Chair
In the final episode of the Mates Mental Health Toolbox, Host Emily Sullivan and Barry Large, Chairman of Grain Producers Australia, delve into Tool #8: Building a Sustainable Mental Health Strategy for Rural Communities. This episode focuses on creating long-term mental health plans tailored to the unique needs of rural areas.
Barry shares insights into the importance of local leadership, community buy-in, and the integration of mental health education to foster a supportive, sustainable mental health culture. Together, they outline how rural communities can develop and implement effective mental health strategies that stand the test of time.
This episode discusses topics related to mental health. If you’re feeling vulnerable, please take care while listening and seek support. A list of support services can be found HERE.