FOLLOWING the great success of the Fishing with a Farmer concept last year, the minds behind it are ready to go around again this month.
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Aberdeen Fishing Club (AFC) secretary Nick Price dreamt up the idea.
And, in conjunction with Upper Hunter Community Services (UHCS), he’s looking to host it again on Saturday, March 23.
The purpose of the day is to separate farmers from the doom and gloom of the drought and give them a day of enjoyment and fun.
“The idea is just to get farmers away from feeding cattle, chasing water and reminding them what life's about,” Mr Price said.
Anglers are invited to arrive at 1.30pm for a wellbeing info session provided by Sarah Green from the Rural Adversity Mental Health Program.
The fishing will then take place from 3.30pm.
Afterwards there'll also be a free barbecue dinner and a speech from former NRL player Wayne Wingham, who now represents The Black Dog Institute.
Both UHCS and AFC are imploring as many farmers to come along as possible and want others to spread the word following the success of the previous outing at Lake Glenbawn.
“We’re really after farmers to ring and put their name down,” Mr Price said.
“We’ve got some who are bringing their kids along, too, so that they and their family can fish together.
“It was better than we thought it would be last year.
“They [farmers] just forgot about everything that was going on and had a laugh and a fish and a good time.”
Boats have been organised for the day and EJ Todd has provided substantial sponsorship for the event as well.
Training is being provided to the boat owners so they will be comfortable handing the tough conversations regarding mental health and the drought.
Anyone interested is encouraged to contact Mr Price on 6543 7111 or aberdeentackle@gmail.com
However, RSVPs must be in by March 22.
Upper Hunter Community Service thanks NIB for its contribution towards the project, as well as the continued support UHCS receives from BHP.