Federation Council is delighted to announce that John Harper OAM, founder of the mental health and wellbeing initiative and podcast series, 'Mate Helping Mate', will be the region's official Australia Day Ambassador for 2026. A retired wheat and sheep farmer from the Riverina, John brings a profound understanding of the challenges faced by rural communities, who often struggle with social isolation and limited resources for mental health support.
John Harper OAM is a highly respected mental health advocate who launched Mate Helping Mate in 2006 to promote prevention and early intervention for mental health issues by drawing on the inherent strength of Australian mateship and community bonds. His practical, candid approach, born from his own experience with depression, has resonated across the country, encouraging thousands of Australians to recognise the importance of mental wellbeing and proactively seeking support for themselves and their friends. His impactful work has seen him collaborate with major organisations, including the Black Dog Institute, Lifeline, and Suicide Prevention Australia, and he has advised both State and Federal Governments through initiatives such as the National Drought Taskforce, on community-driven solutions for rural mental health. Awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia for his service to mental health, John remains deeply committed to his mission. He is proud to be "an ordinary Aussie bloke from the bush" who simply wants to make a difference when times are tough.
Federation Council Mayor, Cr Cheryl Cook said Council is looking forward to welcoming John to the region over the Australia Day long weekend.
"We are absolutely thrilled to welcome John Harper OAM as our Australia Day Ambassador for 2026," Mayor Cook said.
"As a fellow advocate for mental health and a farmer from the Riverina, John deeply understands the pressures our rural communities face. His candid approach and message of 'Mate Helping Mate' perfectly aligns with the important mental health and wellbeing initiatives we are driving here across the Federation Council area. We look forward to hearing his inspiring message and working with him to further strengthen our community bonds."
John's visit will culminate in the Australia Day Awards and Citizenship Ceremony where he will co-present the awards and deliver an address, sharing his inspirational message about resilience, community connection in the bush, and the ultimate show of Aussie spirit- mateship. For John, the core of his advocacy is a simple yet powerful goal: to make the world a better place by setting an example and encouraging individuals to look out for one another.
Our Australia Day Awards and Ceremony will be held at the Corowa Memorial Hall from 10am on Monday 26 January 2026. All residents are invited to come along and celebrate our Australia Day Award Nominees, our Student Achiever Award Recipients, our newest citizens and enjoy a complimentary BBQ lunch with live entertainment from the Swag 'n' Billy Bush Band.
