HOGGY LAUNCHING 2025 FMMH INITIATIVE FIELD DAY SERIES AT AGQUIP

Australia’s biggest field day, AgQuip, will set the stage for the launch of the 2025 Farmer Mates Mental Health Initiative Field Day series. 

Program Ambassador and Aussie cricketing favourite Brad Hogg will be leading discussions on building strong relationships, supporting one another, and facing seasonal challenges together. 

A special AgQuip event hosted by NSW Farmers Tamworth District Branch will be held at Tamworth West Leagues Club on Tuesday, 19 August at 6pm. The evening will include a presentation from Brad Hogg, followed by a Q&A panel discussing Challenges and Opportunities for Young and Seasoned Farmers. 

Brad said he was looking forward to returning to AgQuip to connect with growers. 

“I’ve spent a lot of time at field days over the last few years with the Farmer Mates Mental Health program, and the thing that always stands out is how important connection is, whether you’re talking about the weather, the markets, or what’s going on at home, those conversations matter,” he said. 

 “Events like those with NSW Farmers on Tuesday night give us the chance to listen to each other, share ideas, and remind ourselves that no matter the challenges, we’re in it together. 

“And if you’re after a smaller setting, or a personal chat, flag me down at the field days or visit one of the stands I’m working with and check in with me there.” 

The free event will also feature Danika Leys – CEO, Country Women’s Association, Martin Murray – Chairperson, NSW Young Farmers Council and NFF Young Farmers Council member, Joe Burgess – Senior Agribusiness Manager, Sprout Ag and President, Tamworth Young Agri Professionals Group, Barnaby Joyce – Federal Member for New England. RSVPs are essential. HERE 

Brad will also attend, with Grain Producers Australia Chief Executive Colin Bettles, the following locations on Wednesday, August 20 at AgQuip: 

• Grains Research and Development Corporation AgQuip Grower Forum from 7-9am at the NSW Farmers site (G-H 24/25). This free event will feature updates on GRDC research investments, seasonal outlooks, and market intelligence, with opportunities for growers to ask questions directly to industry experts. RSVPs are essential. HERE  

• Grains Farm Biosecurity Program stand (LLS Shed) with NSW Grains Biosecurity Officer Kate Glastonbury at 11am. 

• Clear Grain Exchange from 1.30 - 2.30pm at the Datamars site, I-J 31. 

• Manildra from 3.30pm at Site G13. 

The Farmer Mates Mental Health Initiative is led by Grain Producers Australia in partnership with Nufarm, the GRDC, Rural Aid Australia and Lifeline WA. The program is now in its fourth year connecting rural and remote Australians to start important conversations, build community resilience, and link farmers to mental health resources. 

In 2025, the initiative is taking part in major regional events across the country, including: 

• Dowerin Machinery Field Days, Dowerin Western Australia– 27–28 August 

• Yorke Peninsula Field Days, Paskeville South Australia – 30 September–2 October 

• Elmore Field Days, Elmore Victoria – 7–9 October 

  
  

If you’re interested in hosting Brad Hogg and the Farmer Mates Mental Health Initiative at any of these field days, or in a standalone event, contact us. HERE  

New to the initiative in 2025 is the Mates Mental Health Toolbox podcast, which takes conversations from the paddock to the airwaves, covering practical tips, inspiring stories, and the realities of mental health in rural Australia. 

IMPORTANT RESOURCES 

• Rural Aid’s Mental Health and Wellbeing Team HERE 

• GPA’s Farmer Mates Mental Health initiative 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 Executive Officer Communications Rachael Oxborrow: 0416 705 193