The resumption of a young farmers club aimed at connecting those who can often feel isolated is welcome news for many, following a lengthy absence in the region.
“Sometimes you don’t feel like getting off the farm and those are the times that usually you really need to,” says Tasman Valley Young Farmers chair Blair Anglesey.
Blair, a sheep and beef farmer from the Sherry River, explains that one of the main reasons he was keen to crank up a Young Farmers club in the region was to offer an opportunity for young people in the food and fibre sector to connect and meet new people.
“There was a real need for our age group to have something to connect us, and while where we live isn’t as isolating, compared to other areas, the job itself can be as your often working long days on your own or only seeing one or two other people.”
Tasman Valley Young Farmers started up last year and has been moving from strength to strength, gaining members, hosting events and participating in a range of Young Farmer contests and challenges.
The first Young Farmers club in the country was established in 1927 catering for those aged 16-31 years old.
“We have had heaps of fun and made some great connections with other rural groups around the place,” Blair says.
There are 60 clubs nationwide that have members from all sectors of agriculture and horticulture, however Blair explains that you don’t have to be a farmer or grower to join in.
“If you have an interest in the rural sector or primary industries, you can be part of the club. We have members who live in all different areas of the Tasman district, so we meet up in different locations to cater for that.”
Everyone involved in the primary industries is working through a range of current challenges which make it even more important to connect with others who are facing similar or the same challenges. Having a support system and realising you are not alone really helps to overcome challenges more easily.
“Social connection is really important to your well-being. It’s great to get off the farm and have the club to connect with others,” Blair says.
If you, or one of your workers, would like to connect with the Tasman Valley Young Farmer group then contact Blair on 027 845 0355 or look them up on Facebook.
