Rural counsellors reaching out
Rural Financial Counselling Service Victoria West will bring its free and confidential support service to this year’s Wimmera Machinery Field Days.
The service has worked with farmers since 1986, when a number of local government areas joined forces to help those most in need.
RFCS Victoria West has since grown to also support regional business owners; and in 2020, the service added wellbeing services specifically for farmers and regional small business owners, and their families.
RFCS Victoria West executive officer David Stafford said the service’s mission was to provide support to people of all walks of life across the vast west of regional Victoria.
“Our mission is to strengthen the ability of primary producers and small businesses in Victoria’s regional west to take action to manage change, adjust to challenges and plan for the future,” he said.
“The Wimmera Machinery Field Days act as a barometer for social, economic, agricultural prosperity and growth in the entire region. This is why we feel that supporting the event is key.
“Just like us, they are not-for-profit. The hard-working regional volunteer committee has managed to get this occasion up and running every year since 1963 – a tremendous effort.”
RFCS Victoria West is a not-for-profit charity governed by a board with external support from regional partners and both the state and federal governments. Its rural financial counsellors work in the regions they live, helping them to better understand conditions and communities.
It is through this work that people can gain a clear understanding on their financial position, explore options, develop budgets and plans, apply for grants and more.
Mr Stafford said support was a phone call away.
“Our service provides help for farmers and regional small businesses in Western Victoria – we want to hear from you should you need support,” he said.
“We are here to help and completely free of charge or obligation. Our counsellors are here to talk to you.”
If you, or someone you know, needs support, phone on 1300 735 578. Alternatively, people can email admin@wswrcs.com.au or visit www. Rfcsvictoriawest.com.au for information.