Supporting the health and wellbeing of farming communities at Henty Field Days

Murrumbidgee Primary Health Network (MPHN) will return to the Henty Machinery Field Days in 2022 and is offering free farmer health and lifestyle assessments and access to COVID-19 vaccinations.

MPHN COVID-19 Manager Peta Anderson said the field days will be a great opportunity for people from rural and remote areas to catch up on their vaccination.

“Dr Bond and the team from Lockhart Medical will be joining us at the Country Lifestyle Pavilion delivering COVID-19 vaccines throughout the three days to anyone who is in need of a booster or primary dose,” Ms Anderson said.

Acting MPHN CEO Julie Redway said the farmer assessments and vaccinations are just some of the many things MPHN is providing at the Henty Field Days to help support the health and wellbeing in farming communities.

“We are pleased to be back in Henty again to provide farmers in the local area an opportunity to have a check-up on their health. I would encourage as many people as possible to take advantage of these free health assessments and ensure their COVID-19 vaccination is up to date,” Ms Redway said.

“Attendees can also collect a free, undated financial year diary from MPHN during their visit” she said.

MPHN Mental Health Alcohol and other Drugs Manager Maja Asmus said the 20-minute health assessments are being delivered by the National Centre for Farmer Health (NCFH) and are for farm men, women, agricultural workers and all rural community members.

“The health assessments provide checks on things such as cholesterol, blood glucose and blood pressure. Visitors can also to learn about how to get involved in the health of the community by joining a Local Health Advisory Committee,” Ms Asmus said.

“MPHN will also have plenty of information about mental health services and supports we have available in our region, including free online suicide prevention training known as Question. Persuade. Refer. (QPR).”

If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health emergency should call the Mental Health Line 1800 011 511, Lifeline 13 11 14 or call 000. Or to access the Head to Health website visit www.headtohealth.gov.au.