STRATEGIES for healthy livestock and farmers will be discussed in a workshop in south-western Victoria this week.

To a backdrop of continuing dry conditions, Agriculture Victoria grains southwest regional manager Felicity Pritchard is encouraging farmers to attend a ‘Looking after your livestock, looking after you’ workshop at Apsley Town Hall on 14 November.

“In drier seasons farmers tend to prioritise the condition of their animals over their own wellbeing so we are offering an expert-led workshop to help farming families navigate some of these complex issues,” she said.

Speakers at the event will include local veterinarian Dr Jane Gaussen, who will cover animal health management and disease prevention, minimising livestock stress to maximise outcomes and optimising animal performance during challenging seasons.

Occupational therapist Dr Julie Rowse from Healthy Mind and Soul will discuss the importance of caring for you and your family’s mental health, the ‘Stress Bucket’, and 12 simple and practical strategies to help farmers develop a plan to thrive.

Agriculture Victoria said it has a range of supports for south-west farmers managing drought conditions, including grants for on-farm infrastructure and technical advice. Farmers are encouraged to visit agriculture.vic.gov.au/dryseasons for advice and information or phone 136 186.

The workshop on Thursday will start with registration at: 8.30am before speakers from 9am to 2:30pm. The free event will be held in Apsley Town Hall, 62 Wallace Street, Apsley. Morning tea and lunch will be provided.

Registration is essential for catering and places are limited so get in early at www.trybooking.com/CWNZG

Further information is available at www.agriculture.vic.gov.au/events or contact Felicity Pritchard on 0448 146 604 or email [email protected].

The workshop is provided through the Farm Business Resilience Program and jointly funded by the Australian Government’s Future Drought Fund and the Victorian Government’s Future Agriculture Skills Capacity Fund.