It’s time to talk about rural struggles
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29 November 2018
It’s time to talk about rural struggles
Council had the opportunity to hear from a representative from Rural Aid Australia about the amazing work that the organisation does in the Goondiwindi Region and across Australia.
Ms Jenny Jensen spoke with Council yesterday about the support that Rural Aid Australia provides and highlighted its availability as a year-round service.
Mayor Graeme Scheu took this opportunity to encourage anyone in our community who may need assistance not to suffer in silence and to contact the organisation.
‘This service isn’t just for those experiencing drought or other natural challenges, but it’s about the daily struggles of rural living,’ Cr Scheu said.
‘Whether you’re a property owner or an employee working on the land, there are resources available and we’re so lucky to have this service available in our community,’ he said.
‘What makes our region great is how we look after each other. Perhaps if you know of someone doing it tough, you can encourage them to contact Rural Aid Australia or ask permission from them to arrange a call with the service.’
Rural Aid Australia is entirely funded through corporate and private donations and does not report to government. It is therefore very independent, flexible and responsive to the needs of rural people.
The organisation partners with a variety of other groups to provide a range of services, including: the Buy a Bale fodder program; Farm Army, where volunteers help on farms; Farm Rescue, where tradies provide a mini makeover on farms; and most importantly on-farm counselling.
The counselling service helps people work through a range of financial and social pressures that can come from rural life.
Ms Jensen is from a farming background and, like her colleagues, can apply her professional counselling qualifications with a very practical knowledge of the issues that her clients may face.
Mayor Graeme Scheu thanked Ms Jensen and Rural Aid Australia for the wonderful work they do in our area in partnership with Care Goondiwindi, Texas Lions Club, local agents and other community groups.
Anyone who may need any assistance, or who simply wants to have a chat about what help is available, is encouraged to contact Rural Aid Australia on 1300 327 624.
Deputy Mayor Rick Kearney, Jenny Jensen from Rural Aid and Council Chief Executive Officer Carl Manton