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GPA SHOUT OUT - BACK BIG SHAVE

Grain Producers Australia is calling on all growers and industry members to step up, dig deep and make a good contribution to support ‘Dan’s Big Shave for Charity’. 

 

It comes as GPA’s National Mental Health Ambassador, Brad Hogg, hits the road to attend more events in the next two weeks, in this year’s Farmer Mates Metal Health Initiative that’s backed by Nufarm and other partners. 

  • Yorke Peninsula Field Days (SA) – 30 Sept–2 Oct  

  • Elmore Field Days (VIC) – 7–9 October 

 

‘Dan’s Big Shave for Charity’ is an initiative that’s being promoted by the Special Envoy for Men’s Health Dan Repacholi MP. The Olympian and Federal MP for Hunter is putting his money where his mouth is – and in fact his beard – pledging to shave it off, for a very good cause. The event promotion on the Mark Hughes Foundation website HERE shows why this is happening: 

 

“After years of his beard becoming a bit of a trademark, Dan is preparing to do something bold – shave it all off! On 31st October at Movember Headquarters in Melbourne, Dan will say goodbye to his very well-known beard in a bid to raise an incredible $100,000 for three charities close to his heart: 

 

  • 50% will support the Mark Hughes Foundation and its mission to fund brain cancer research and patient support. 

  • 25% will go to the Royal Flying Doctors Service, helping deliver lifesaving healthcare to rural and remote communities. 

  • 25% will be donated to CareFlight, providing rapid aeromedical response and critical care across Australia. 

 

“This shave is more than just losing a beard – it’s about making a huge impact. Every dollar raised will help fund vital medical care, research, and support for people and families who need it most.” 

 

GPA has already praised HERE Dan’s appointment as the Special Envoy for Men’s Health, announced by the Albanese Government post-election, when launching this year’s Farmer Mates Metal Health Initiative. 

 

GPA Chief Executive, Colin Bettles said Mr Repacholi’s role reflected the core values of GPA’s national FMMH partnership program that’s also helping to make a difference in farming communities throughout regional communities, starting conversations raising awareness of mental health and suicide, and breaking down stigmas. 

 

“An Aussie Olympian and cricketing legend – it might sound like the title of a road trip movie, but in reality this could actually happen, coming your way soon, and all for a good cause,” he said. 

 

“It’d be great to see Dan and Brad hit the road and attend some events together, for important conversations about farmer wellbeing. And most of all, doing what they’re both extremely passionate about – talking to people, not just the men, and listening to them and hearing what’s really happening for them.” 

 

Mr Bettles said he definitely supported Dan’s initiative that’s doing something bold and positive, by shaving his beard off for a good cause – but in another way was also conflicted about it. 

 

“Dan’s beard is an eye-catching trademark, that’s been crafted over many years and don’t want to see it lost. Maybe that’s another good reason to extend this good cause, by adding another chapter where people can double down and keep giving more for longer, to make sure he grows it back again.” 

 Brad also called on everyone to step up, dig deep, and donate to ‘Dan’s Big Shave for Charity’. 



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“I’m looking forward to getting back to the field days and meeting with the farmers again in South Australia and Victoria at the Yorke Peninsula Field Days and Elmore Field Days. And big shout out to Big Dan and his team for promoting this good cause. Every bit helps and everyone should get behind it, where they can,” he said. 

 

GPA has also strongly supported the ‘Joint Statement for Government Action’ – as led by the National Farmers’ Federation – backing a comprehensive proposal requesting $50 million in government funding, to support evidence-based programs tailored for the agriculture industry.  

 

These programs are being run by respected organisations such as ifarmwell, the National Centre for Farmer Health, and many more throughout Australia.  

 

RESCOURCES  

  • Mates Mental Health Toolbox www.grainproduucers.com.au/matespodcast   

  • Rural Aid’s Mental Health and Wellbeing Team HERE   

  • GPA’s Farmer Mates Mental Health initiative resources guide HERE  

  • Lifeline’s 24/7 telephone crisis support service is available on 13 11 14   

  • Mental Health and Wellbeing Team intake line 1300 17 55 94 - Head Office 1300 327 624  

  

ENDS 

 

Further Information: 

 

GPA Media Contact Rachael Oxborrow: 0416 705 193 

 
 
 
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