Surf Coast Shire Council is recognising International Men's Day with a special community screening of the acclaimed Australian film Just A Farmer.
The event, at Winchelsea's Globe Theatre on 20 November, will include presentations by one of the film's actors Damian Walshe-Howling, who has family ties in Surf Coast Shire.
Just A Farmer powerfully and authentically portrays a rural Australian family navigating grief and the impacts of suicide alongside the financial and seasonal pressures of farming life.
Since its release in 2024 the film has featured in more than 150 community-led screenings across Australia, breaking down stigmas and opening conversations about mental health, awareness, connection and the importance of seeking help.
The Winchelsea screening will be followed by a discussion with Damian Walshe-Howling, and time for people to chat, connect and enjoy a light supper.
Representatives from organisations including Lifeline, the Victorian Council of Churches Emergencies Ministry and Red Cross will be available to provide information and support.
Just A Farmer was written and produced by Victorian farmer Leila McDougall, who also plays the lead role, and it was filmed against the backdrop of Western Victoria's Grampians Ranges.
Cr Adrian Schonfelder: "Council is proud to be acknowledging International Men's Day and men's wellbeing with this event.
"It will be warm, welcoming, supportive and open to all, and responds to calls from our community to share a public screening of this very real and ultimately uplifting film.
"It is described as a must-watch for every rural community.
"This will be Council's first event recognising International Men's Day, providing an opportunity to acknowledge the positive contributions that men make to families, communities and society, and to raise awareness of some of the issues that affect men including mental health, social isolation and barriers to seeking support.
"Community wellbeing and improving mental health and social connection are priorities in our Council Health and Wellbeing Plan and Council Plan."
Leila McDougall: "This film is not just about telling a story, it's about starting a conversation that is long overdue.
"Mental health in farming communities is a real issue, and I believe Just A Farmer can help bring much-needed change.
"We need to stop telling farmers to be more resilient, and start showing them the empathy, respect and appreciation they deserve."
Damian Walshe-Howling is one of Australia's most respected actors and recognised as a director and writer with a passion for meaningful storytelling.
His role in Just A Farmer brings to life emotional realities faced by many rural Australians, and he brings lived experience through the loss of a loved one after a long battle with mental health challenges – giving him a deeply personal connection with the film's message.
Council's Just A Farmer event will start at 5pm on Friday 20 November at the Globe Theatre.
There will be no cost for community members to attend but bookings are required. Bookings can be made via surfcoast.vic.gov.au/IMD2026 or by calling Council on 5261 0600.
Lifeline provides 24-hour mental health crisis support via 13 11 14, or lifeline.org.au
