Dry weather classification expands to North Island
The dry weather in some parts of the North Island has received medium-scale adverse event classification from the Government.
Rural Women New Zealand is concerned for the mental well being of farmers as they struggle with the current drought.
"However, the overriding concern for Rural Women™ is women, who are often at the sharp end when mental illness strikes," says president Wendy McGowan.
"While they are seen as carers and nurturers they are not immune to stress and depression, but are most likely to put their own mental wellbeing on hold and 'keep calm and carry on'."
It is well recognised that family violence spikes after an adverse event. Increased reports of violence can continue for up to two years following the event. Rural women are especially vulnerable, given their distance from neighbours, health care, childcare, family, friends and services. The insidiousness of a drought when there is no end in sight further compounds the problem.
The uniqueness of the farm/home environment and joint nature of agribusiness can complicate matters further if a woman wishes to leave an abusive relationship. The economic and emotional ties make it very difficult to walk away from those responsibilities.
"Women play a major role in achieving resilience in rural communities. A quiet word may be all that it takes to initiate help and support, and prevent a tragedy," says McGowan.
"Rural Women™ is well placed and committed to supporting women and families in rural communities."
Winners of DairyNZ’s Sustainability and Stewardship awards in the Ballance Farm Environment Awards have their eyes firmly fixed on progressing a positive future for New Zealand dairy.
Troubled milk processor Synlait’s co-founder John Penno has stepped down from the board.
Dairy Women's Network has announced the finalists for its Regional Leader of the Year award.
Farmers are being urged to make their veterinarians an integral part of their farm management team.
Animal rights organization, SAFE says the government needs to maintain the ban on live exports.
New findings from not-for-profit food supply and distribution organization, the New Zealand Food Network (NZFN) have revealed a 42% increase in demand for food support in 2023 compared to 2022.
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