Workshop for healthy livestock and farmers

8 November 2024

Continuing dry conditions are making it challenging for many farming families in Victoria’s south west region.

Agriculture Victoria Grains Southwest Regional Manager Felicity Pritchard encourages farmers to attend a ‘Looking after your livestock, looking after you’ workshop at Apsley Town Hall this month.

‘In drier seasons farmers tend to prioritise the condition of their animals over their own wellbeing so we are offering an expert-led workshop to help farming families navigate some of these complex issues,’ Ms Pritchard said.

Workshop presenters Dr Jane Gaussen and Dr Julie Rowse work across western Victoria and have a deep understanding of what farming communities are currently facing. Workshop presenters Dr Jane Gaussen and Dr Julie Rowse work across western Victoria and have a deep understanding of what farming communities are currently facing.

Dr Jane Gaussen is a local veterinarian from The Livestock Vet and regular speaker at livestock events. She will cover animal health management and disease prevention, minimising livestock stress to maximise outcomes and optimising animal performance during challenging seasons.

Dr Julie Rowse from Healthy Mind and Soul is an occupational therapist, author and speaker who supports a wide range of clients to attain mental fitness. She will discuss the importance of caring for you and your family’s mental health, the ‘Stress Bucket’, 12 simple and practical strategies and help you develop a plan to thrive.

Agriculture Victoria has a range of supports for south west farmers managing drought conditions, including grants for on-farm infrastructure and technical advice. Farmers are encouraged to visit agriculture.vic.gov.au/dryseasons for advice and information or phone 136 186.

Event details

Date: Thursday 14 November

Time: 8.30 am registration. 9 am to 2:30 pm workshop

Location: Apsley Town Hall, 62 Wallace Street, Apsley

Cost: Free (includes morning tea and lunch)

Registration is essential for catering and places are limited so get in early at www.trybooking.com/CWNZG

Further information on the event is available at www.agriculture.vic.gov.au/events or contact Felicity Pritchard on 0448 146 604 or email felicity.pritchard@agriculture.vic.gov.au.

This workshop is provided through the Farm Business Resilience Program and jointly funded by the Australian Government’s Future Drought Fund and the Victorian Government’s Future Agriculture Skills Capacity Fund.

Media contact: Anna Ferguson

Phone: 0499 540 475