Comedy night targets rural wellness
Comedian Wilson Dixon is set to headline an event in Southland aimed at getting farmers off their farm and laughing.
Farmstrong has announced plans to hold five more comedy shows across New Zealand following its first sell-out show in the Waikato.
The Southland comedy night will be held at the Winton Memorial Hall on Friday November 9.
Nightcaps Young Farmers chairman Andrew Cowie said the event would bring a bit of joy to a busy time of the year.
‘’We’re flat out from September until Christmas, so it’ll be good to get off the farm, let our hair down and have a few laughs,’’ Cowie said.
The Southland comedy show will feature popular comedians Nick Rado, Wilson Dixon, Tarum Mohambhai and Tevita Manukia.
Farmstrong spokeswoman Michelle Stevens said the event was for all farmers, rural professionals and supporters of the rural community.
‘’Our first comedy night in the Waikato was a huge hit.
‘’People really appreciate being able to switch off for a few hours and have a laugh,’’ Stevens said.
The show is supported by the Rural Support Trust, alongside Farmstrong and NZ Young Farmers.
‘’Farmstrong promotes rural wellness and shares simple tips and advice on looking after yourself. Bringing communities together at events like this is one of the ways we can do that.’’ Figures released last month by the Chief Coroner reveal New Zealand’s suicide rate has risen for the fourth year in a row.
The provisional statistics show 668 people took their own lives in the 2017-18 year.
The highest number of suicides was recorded in the 20 to 24 age group.
NZ Young Farmers member Jessie Waite said the figures were tragic and a major concern.
‘’They highlight just how important it is for people to ensure they don’t neglect their own wellbeing,’’ Waite said.
Tickets to the comedy show are $20 each, with all proceeds going directly to Farmstrong.
NZ Young Farmers was helping to organise the event and tickets were available by visiting www.youngfarmers.co.nz/nzyf
Farmstrong comedy nights are also being held in Northland, Taranaki, central Hawke’s Bay and Otago.
‘‘People really appreciate being able to switch off for a few hours and have a laugh.’’ - Farmstrong spokeswoman Michelle Stevens.