R U OK?'s Conversation Convoy Visited AgFest to Encourage Meaningful Conversations with the Agricultural Community

R U OK?’s Conversation Convoy visited AgFest to check in with the agricultural community.

One of the key resources the R U OK? team brought with them is the Mateship Manual, a free short simple guide with tips and guidance to help everyone have a meaningful conversation with someone who's doing it tough in rural and remote areas.

“Our rural and remote communities have been some of our hardest hit in recent years, but they are also some of the most resilient with a tradition of supporting each other,” said R U OK? CEO, Katherine Newton.

“We know that local knows best, and our team really enjoyed connecting with AgFest attendees to hear how they support one another, listening to what they have to say and sharing a range of free resources they can refer to when helping their friends and family through challenging times,” said Ms Newton. 

Ms Newton says that while the COVID-19 pandemic had forced changes to their plans for more extensive regional visits, R U OK? has adapted and is committed to sharing the R U OK? message when invited into communities and festivals, albeit on a smaller scale for now.

Joining the team at AgFest is R U OK? Community Ambassador, Mitch McPherson who is also the founder of Hobart charity SPEAK UP Stay ChatTY. Mitch lost his younger brother Ty to suicide in 2014 and Stay ChatTY was started in his memory.

“Its important people feel confident they know how to spot the signs someone is struggling and how to navigate a meaningful conversation if someone says, “No I’m not OK,” said Mr McPherson.

“R U OK? will be teaming up with Stay ChatTY at AgFest. Come and find us at Site 212 in Second Avenue.”

The R U OK? Conversation Convoy visit to AgFest would not be possible without the generous support from Connor Menswear, Audi Foundation, KitKat, Twinings and Spirit Super.

For support at any time of day or night, call Lifeline on 13 11 14.