Young country show enthusiasts looking to reboot their local group following the COVID-19 pandemic and make a positive contribution to rural mental health are strongly encouraged to apply for the Australian Young Farmer Challenge (AYFC) Regional Grant Program.
The AYFC, an initiative of Agricultural Shows Australia, is the showcase of young people in Australian agriculture, competing in diverse challenges of skill, technique, knowledge and safety.
Held at agricultural shows across the country, the AYFC is the opportunity for young rural people to take centre stage, demonstrate their skills and catch up with mates.
Agricultural Shows Australia Executive Officer Katie Stanley said AYFC competitions play an important role in improving the mental health of young people living in rural areas.
“A local agricultural show is an opportunity for rural people to get off the farm and meet up with friends and family. Ag shows bring communities together,” she said.
“It is widely reported that there is a shortage of mental health support services for young people living in regional and remote communities across Australia.
“The Australian Government Department of Health has recognised that young people with ‘nothing to do’ or no social opportunities as a key issue contributing to poor mental health in country areas.
“The AYFC can be part of an innovative community response to mental health servicing, providing young rural people with a platform to come together, form social connections and work as teams in a fun, safe and exciting day out.
“These competitions provide entertainment and crowd engagement as well as education for the broader community about agriculture, food and more specifically, the role of farmers and farm safety.”
Ms Stanley said the grants are available to support the costs of organising and running AYFC competitions at a local, regional and state level across Australia.
“The purpose of the program is to support the sharing of knowledge, encourage community initiatives and promote community leadership,” she said.
“From start-up competitions at local agricultural shows, through to established competitions looking to expand into regional and state competitions, funding submissions will be accepted from all eligible organising committees.”
Applications for the AYFC Regional Grant Program close February 2021.
The project is jointly funded by Agricultural Shows Australia and the Australian Government’s National Landcare Program.
To apply for your local show, visit https://agshowsaustralia.org.au/
Source: Agricultural Shows Australia