Upper Murray Regional
Neighbourhood
House Network
17 Nov 2025
In times of drought and pressure, community matters more than ever
On Tuesday, 7 October 2025, Mt Beauty Neighbourhood Centre (MBNC) hosted a powerful and much-needed event: the “Look Over the Farm Gate” dinner, held at the Dederang Multipurpose Hall. Twenty-two local farmers came together for a warm evening of food, conversation and connection — a reminder that in times of drought and pressure, community matters more than ever.
With $1,600 in support from the National Centre for Farmer Health, MBNC provided pizza, dessert platters, soft drinks and nibbles in a relaxed, welcoming environment. Guests received a well‑being showbag full of resources and support contacts.
The evening also featured guest speakers: Nicole Stephens from Wellways, representatives from the Hume Riverina Community Legal Service, and Homemade Aged Care — each bringing practical insight into mental health, legal advice, and aged-care supports for rural families.
MBNC Manager Trish Dixon reflected on the evening: “Farmers often put their own health last. A night like this reminds people they’re not alone.” She added, “People left feeling lighter.” Her words resonated throughout the event, where participants shared not only food, but also stories, laughter and a sense of relief.
Why This Matters: Mental Health and Drought in Farming Communities
Farming communities across Australia are under increasing stress from economic uncertainty, climate variability, and prolonged drought. According to a large-scale study by the Australian National University (ANU), drought can have a significant negative impact on the mental health of farmers and rural workers — with increased rates of anxiety, depression, and psychological distress linked to reduced agricultural productivity and financial hardship.¹
Research from an expert social panel convened by the Australian Government highlights further concerns: in times of drought, many farm families report loneliness, isolation, and deep financial uncertainty.² The panel’s report also flagged rising rates of substance use and withdrawal from social supports among drought-affected populations.
The National Farmers’ Federation (NFF) has echoed these findings in their Wellbeing Report, noting that 45% of Australian farmers have experienced depression, and 64% have struggled with anxiety, with climate-related stressors — including drought — often cited as root causes.³ Alarmingly, thoughts of self-harm and mental distress are not uncommon among this community, underscoring the urgent need for targeted support.
The Role of Neighbourhood Houses in Supporting Rural Wellbeing
Neighbourhood Houses like Mt Beauty’s play a critical role in bridging the gap between mental health services and farming families. By providing a safe, neutral space, they make it easier for people to reach out, connect, and access both local and external resources. Trish Dixon emphasises that events such as this dinner are not just about socialising — they’re about building trust, reducing isolation, and offering a lifeline.
In remote or regional settings, getting help can feel hard. Many farmers rely on trusted community spaces rather than formal mental health services. Studies show that rural residents are less likely to seek traditional help, but they often benefit from peer connection and community‑based support.⁴
1. ANU, The Impact of Drought on Mental Health in Rural and Regional Australia
2. Australian Government Expert Social Panel, It’s About People: Changing Perspectives on Dryness
3. National Farmers’ Federation, Wellbeing Report
4. BMC Public Health, Longitudinal Study on Rural Mental Health and Help‑Seeking Behaviour