Local farmers turn out to support one another
Published on 07 October 2025
Farmers recently attended three of a series of five free community barbecues for a ‘Look Over the Farm Gate – Help a Mate!’ initiative in Buln Buln, Longwarry and Trafalgar.
This series of events aim to bring primary producing families together to support each other with the stresses of farming in dry season conditions, as well as provide access to important support resources.
Mayor of Baw Baw Shire Cr Danny Goss said the sense of community amongst local farmers is obvious.
“There is no denying farming is a tough job, even more so in the harsh and dry conditions we are experiencing now. It’s great to see farmers taking a few hours off their land to relax, connect and access important support services”, said Cr Goss.
“Local Lions Clubs and CWA groups have provided excellent catering. The opportunity to share a meal and talk to each other was appreciated by all attending.”
As rainfall totals continue to fall well below usual winter and spring expectations, more farmers are experiencing water and feed shortages. Many are becoming stretched financially as they must source and pay for limited supplies of water, and hay and grain from as far away as Western Australia.
Two more free ‘Look Over the Farm Gate – Help a Mate!’ community barbecue events are planned throughout October.
Upcoming event details
- 11am – 2pm on Wednesday 8 October at Neerim South Football Netball Club
- 11am – 2pm on Thursday 14 October at Ellinbank Football Netball Club
All primary producers in surrounding areas are welcome, including beef, dairy, goat and sheep farmers, hobbyists and horticulturalists, fruit and vegetable farmers, and cheese and wine makers.
The Mayor added that anyone on the land affected by dry season conditions are welcome and encouraged to come along.
“Along with a warm meal, a cuppa and a chance to connect – information and support resources will be available from Council, Head2Health, Agriculture Victoria, GippsDairy and Lifeline who will be there on the day”, said Cr Goss.
Additionally, Nex Business Farming Wellness will be in attendance, formerly known as the Rural Financial Assistance Service, who reported they are seeing increasing financial and mental stresses in local farming communities. They are attending to offer their services, support primary producers interested in seeking government grants, and provide information regarding subsidies and other drought assistance payments.
No bookings are required, farming families are encouraged to show up on the day and enjoy all on offer.
This series of events is being delivered by Council with funding from Agriculture Victoria and the National Centre for Farmer Health.
Image: Local farmer Trudi Hammond and Paramedic Community Support Coordinator Pauline Murcott at the Buln Buln community barbecue.
Image: Local farmers Annette Walker, Lilly Hammond and Noel Gnaden at the Buln Buln community barbecue.
Image: Lunch and conversation at the Buln Buln community barbecue.
Image: Support agency representatives from at the Longwarry community barbecue. Wayne Sanders from Nex Business Farming Wellness, Katrina Hamilton from Head 2 Health, Cherie Howe from Baw Baw Shire Council, Jack Symes from Lifeline and Bec Henderson from Agriculture Victoria.
Image: Local farmer Kevin Morrison with Martina Jones from Head2Health at the Trafalgar community barbecue.