Boots On the Ground

Let’s Talk Rural Mental Health

a collection of stories from across NSW.

These stories celebrate individuals and communities thriving in the face of adversity and getting creative to support their mental health.
As you explore these ideas and solutions, we hope you feel inspired to take positive action in your own community.

Two people wearing striped aprons stand on a sidewalk under an awning. They are smiling, and one has an arm around the other. Trees and buildings are visible in the background.

Let’s talk getting creative

Rob and Stacey Moroney bring people together for butchering workshops in the Far West of NSW as an opportunity for conversation and connection.

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A group of people posing inside a workshop, some wearing aprons. Shelving and equipment are visible in the background.

Let’s talk building bonds & crafting community

The Townsend Men’s and Women’s Shed is a place where people come to forge lasting relationships and strengthen their sense of belonging.

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Metal sculpture of a fisherman holding a fish, wearing a cap and shorts, labeled "Nyngan NSW Aust." Next to it is a dog sculpture labeled "Rusty" and a sign saying "Big Bogan.

Let’s talk mateship

The Bogan Bush-Fella Club offers a welcome opportunity to connect with others who understand the joys and challenges of life in the bush.

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People gather near hay-laden trucks in a wet parking area, with a mural of a jockey on a horse in the background.

Let’s talk a hand up, not a handout

Aussie Hay Runners have become a powerful force in the drought relief space, and Linda Widdup is excited about the future of the movement.

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Two people stand outdoors, smiling. The woman wears a blue shirt and black vest, and the man wears a green sweater and checkered shirt. A metal structure is visible in the background.

Let’s talk an unlikely friendship

Neighbours, Neil Cooney and Kaitie Nash have forged an extraordinary friendship that proves opposites attract and age is just a number.

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A man with short hair and a beard smiles while sitting outdoors. He is wearing a black T-shirt and light shorts, with greenery and a sandy area in the background.

Let’s talk creating positive change

Ben Cudmore’s commitment to change not only saved his life but also sparked a newfound purpose: to help other men facing similar struggles.

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A man wearing boxing gloves practices in a gym, standing near a rack of medicine balls.

Let’s talk a journey, not a destination

Casino based Corey O’Donnell’s story is one of resilience and transformation, but more importantly the pursuit of a better life.

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A woman in a black dress and denim jacket stands on grass next to a marked pole showing various years. Trees and a building are in the background.

Let’s talk community-led resilience

Kristy Hedley of Bulga encourages community to look after community with a focus on preparedness.

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Let’s talk collective action

A true steward of the land, Paul Hewitt’s commitment extends beyond his own paddocks, as the driving force behind the Upper Lachlan Landcare Grazing Group.

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A person stands beside a white horse, gently touching its forehead. The background includes a fenced enclosure and trees.

Let’s talk harnessing an alternative option

Pam Seccombe believes horses are the perfect animals to help people gain self-awareness and understand their own issues and challenges.

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Smiling man in a black sweater and jeans holds a cricket bat on a grassy field.

Let’s talk men’s mental health

Sholto Douglas has not only hit the ‘black dog’ for six, but he’s also helped create something very special for the Wentworth region.

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Three women, one pregnant, stand talking in a sunny room. Two small children play nearby on the floor. Large windows show trees outside.

Let’s talk connecting mums & bubs

The power of connection is alive and well in Wee Waa, where the Buttercup Mums are navigating the highs and lows of motherhood together.

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Four men sitting and talking in a room with a large aerial photograph on the wall.

Let’s talk a collection of great minds

Collective centuries of farming brilliance gather in one room, each and every month to keep the connection to the land and agriculture going.

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Three people wearing casual clothes and gloves stand in front of a Rural Financial Counselling Service NSW sign.

Let’s talk preparation & planning for change

It’s clear no matter the challenges faced within a community, your local RFCS are navigating them too and offer a style of support that is invaluable.

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Let’s Talk Rural Mental Health

a collection of stories from across NSW.

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