HOGG CHAMPIONS MENTAL HEALTH AT MALLEE COMMUNITY EVENT

GRAIN Producers Australia’s Farmer Mates Mental Health (FMMH) program will hit the road for the first time in 2025, starting in the SA Mallee town of Pinnaroo this weekend. 

National Ambassador of GPA’s FMMH partnership, and Australian cricketing legend, Brad Hogg, will headline a community event focused on mental health and mateship, to be held this Sunday. 

The Pinnaroo Project’s Wetlands Bands and Food Vans event will feature Brad engaging with local community members on mental health and wellbeing, along with musical acts and other activities to be held, whilst serving healthy food options. 

Hogg will speak about the importance of mental health, resilience and the power of connection – drawing on his own personal story and experiences growing up on a farm, in the WA Wheatbelt.  

“I’m passionate about supporting mental health in regional Australia and working with our farmers to help make a real difference,” Hogg said. 

“As someone who grew up on a wheatbelt farm, I know how tough it can be.

 “That’s why bringing people together as a community for a fun social day at events such as these is so important. I’m looking forward to meeting people in Pinnaroo to enjoy the day and also take the time to talk about the importance of mental health and wellbeing, in building stronger community resilience.” 

Brad also recognised that some parts of SA were currently in drought and doing it tough, which made community connection vitally important. 

“I know some farming communities are facing severe drought conditions and that’s why we need to remember how important it is to stay in touch and connected with our friends and family,” he said.  

The event, taking place from 11am to 4pm at the Pinnaroo Wetlands, reflects the shared values of GPA’s FMMH partnership which aims to promote real conversations around mental health, while encouraging farmers to prioritise their wellbeing. 

At Sunday’s community event, Brad will hold a series of informal talks, focused on mental fitness and the importance of staying connected – especially during tough seasons. 

Co-Chair, Debbie Colwill, said The Pinnaroo Project team was proud to be hosting Sunday’s event and thrilled to have Brad involved in supporting community wellbeing and resilience. 

“We’re so excited to welcome Brad to Pinnaroo and to host him on our home turf for the day,” she said.  

“This event is about bringing people together, having honest and open conversations, and offering a social and creative outlet. It is also a great opportunity for relaxing, and enjoying some good music and food while connecting with each other.” 

GPA Chair Barry Large said The Pinnaroo Project’s community-driven approach, supported by Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal and the ‘In a Good Place’ program, was exactly what the FMMH program was developed to support. 

Launched in 2022, the FMMH program is supported by key partners including Nufarm, Lifeline, Rural Aid and the Grains Research and Development Corporation. It helps raise awareness, share resources, and reduce stigmas around mental health in rural and regional Australia. 

“Grassroots community events like this really help to make a difference,” Mr Large said.  

“We’re proud to support Brad’s involvement with helping to deliver important messages to farming communities throughout Australia, to band together and support each other in good and tough times. 

“This is all about showing leadership and reminding each other that it’s okay to ask for help.” 

As GPA’s national ambassador, Brad spoke at more than 30 events across the country in 2024.  

Brad’s 2025 tour schedule is set to be released soon – but it already includes his attendance at the Australian Summer Grains Conference (Wednesday 9 July) and the Tractor and Machinery Association of Australia (TMA) Annual Conference in Melbourne (Thursday 24 July). 

EVENT DETAILS  

What:  The Pinnaroo Project’s Wetlands Bands & Food Vans – featuring Brad Hogg 

Where: Pinnaroo Wetlands 8 Mallee Hwy, Pinnaroo SA 5304.  

When:  Sunday 30 March 2025 – 11am-4pm 

More information available via www.thepinnarooproject.com.au 

GPA FMMH Mental Health Resources: HERE 

ENDS 

Further Information: 

Brad Hogg interviews – GPA Communications Rachael Oxborrow: 0416 705 193 

GPA Chair Barry Large: 0427 549 023 

Pinnaroo Project Co-Chair Debbie Colwill: 0429 678 666