Just a Farmer screening to lead into Accidental Counsellor course

05th May 2026

Just a Farmer, a national award-winning film, is helping to spark conversations that can save lives.
The powerful film tells the story of a farming family navigating grief, silence and the ripple effects of suicide in rural Australia.
Through authentic storytelling and raw emotional truth, it highlights resilience, connection, and the reality that behind every farmer is a family, and behind every loss, a community is forever changed.
The community screening is being hosted by the CWA Guyra Evening Branch. It will be held on May 9th at 5.30pm in the Guyra Central School Gymnasium. Entry is by gold coin donation.
“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,” said Kate Matthews, CWA Guyra Evening Branch President.
The evening includes supper, sweets, the film screening, and a Q&A session with New England Family Support and local psychologist Marni Hietbrink.
The following week, New England Community College (NECC), in partnership with Empowered Minds Training and Consultancy, is bringing an Accidental Counsellor course to Guyra on May 14th.
The course is part of a broader community focus to strengthen practical skills for those supporting others through difficult times.
It complements the screening of the award-winning Australian film Just a Farmer.
NECC CEO Kelso Looker said many people are increasingly providing informal support to others.
“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.
Mr Looker said the initiative reflects NECC’s commitment to building stronger, more resilient communities across the New England region.
Accredited by Suicide Prevention Australia, the workshop is designed to build confidence and equip participants with the skills to recognise signs of emotional distress and respond safely and effectively.
It also covers practical
approaches to having difficult conversations, maintaining
appropriate boundaries, and connecting people with professional support services.
While the film may evoke strong emotional responses, it also underscores the importance of awareness and community support.
The Accidental Counsellor course aims to build on that awareness by equipping participants with practical skills.
Additional courses will also be delivered in Armidale and Glen Innes.
For course details, including fees and registration, visit the NECC website or call 02 6779 2132 to register.

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Just a Farmer screening to lead into Accidental Counsellor course

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