Guyra residents will have the opportunity to strengthen their skills in supporting friends, family and neighbours through difficult times when an Accidental Counsellor course is held in the town on 14 May.
Delivered by the New England Community College (NECC) in partnership with Empowered Minds Training and Consultancy, the workshop follows the Guyra screening of award-winning Australian film Just a Farmer on 9 May.
Hosted by the CWA Guyra Evening Branch, the screening is aimed at encouraging open conversations around mental health, suicide awareness and community support in rural areas.
NECC chief executive officer Kelso Looker said many people in regional communities were increasingly stepping into informal support roles.
“Across our communities, particularly with ongoing drought, rising living costs and fuel prices, many people are finding themselves in the role of an ‘accidental counsellor’ — supporting others at work, at home and in everyday life,” he said.
Looker said the Guyra workshop would help equip local residents with practical skills and confidence to respond when someone may be struggling.
Accredited by Suicide Prevention Australia, the course teaches participants how to recognise signs of emotional distress, respond safely and effectively, and connect people with professional support services.
It also covers how to navigate difficult conversations and maintain appropriate boundaries while supporting others.
The screening of Just a Farmer is expected to draw strong community interest, with the film widely recognised for its honest portrayal of grief, mental health struggles and resilience in rural Australia.
The film follows a farming family dealing with the ripple effects of suicide and highlights the impact such loss has on families and small communities.
CWA Guyra Evening Branch president Kate Matthews said the event was designed to ensure residents felt supported while engaging with confronting topics.
“By screening Just a Farmer and involving support services like RAMHP and local psychologists, we can ensure the community is supported while engaging with these confronting topics,” she said.
The screening will begin at 5.30pm on 9 May and includes supper, sweets and a Q&A session with New England Family Support and local psychologist Marni Hietbrink. Entry is by gold coin donation.
The Accidental Counsellor course will continue the conversation by giving Guyra residents practical tools to support others within the community.
Additional workshops will also be held in Armidale and Glen Innes.
For course details, including fees and registration, visit the NECC website or call 02 6779 2132.
Something going on in your part of the New England people should know about? Let us know by emailing newsdesk@netimes.com.au