What are the biggest challenges facing rural people in your region right now – on-farm or off-farm?

At recent events we asked rural people what was worrying them, using a simple dot system. The challenges are vast and varied.

For some, it is economic pressure, compliance demands, or weather events. For others, it's uncertainty around trade agreements or the complexity of succession.

Some farmers are well-equipped to weather certain storms.

Others are dealt a tough hand, with pressures stacking up.

What’s common is that constant pressure affects decision-making.

Rural life is full of variables — and many are outside our control. It’s not just one thing; it’s the sheer volume of moving parts, all demanding attention at once.

What does support look like in practice for your branch?

Support often starts with a phone call, either directly, or from someone who’s concerned.

Recently, a rural professional reached out after visiting a client who was struggling.

The drought was biting hard, feed was running out, capital stock was being sold below value, and long hours on the tractor were taking a toll.

We visited and sat round the table with time to listen.

From that cuppa and conversation, we helped the farmer make a plan.

We connected them to a counsellor and helped them access the Business Advice Fund and we kept checking in.

That same farmer later reached out to help a neighbour, and hosted a Rural Round-up to bring their community together.

That’s what support looks like: one connection at a time, creating a ripple effect that strengthens the whole community.

Can you share a recent moment or story that captures the spirit of your team’s work?

In July, we brought back Farm Break.

With incredible help from sponsors and 60 volunteers, 450 people came together for a night of laughter and connection.

Free buses, great food, and entertainment from The Bitches Box and a bucking bull, created a real buzz.

The essence of our work is strengthening connection, lifting spirits, and reminding people they’re not alone.

4. What upcoming events, workshops or initiatives are you planning or involved in?

We’ve got a few catchups on the calendar — including Brunch on Us and an Agri Services Breakfast.

Our current focus is building readiness for adverse events; strengthening networks, maintaining links with Civil Defence and other agencies, and making sure support can be mobilised quickly.

We’re reconnecting with farmer contacts, who can give us an assessment of the effects of a weather or adverse event in their district, and growing an ‘army of volunteers’ ready to respond, whether to large-scale events or personal crises.

5. What message do you most want to get across to people in your region who may be finding it tough but haven’t reached out yet?

Please don’t think you’re the only one finding things hard. We talk to people every week who are juggling challenges.

A small conversation can make a big difference, whether you need someone to listen, help you make a plan, or point you in the right direction (always confidential). Don’t carry it alone.

We have an amazing, credible network to lean into. We may not have all the answers, but we’ll walk alongside you to figure them out.

If you are worried about someone else, you can contact us about that too. Sometimes a quiet check-in is all it takes.

By Rural Support Trust South Canterbury coordinator Jilly Haywood