A group of farmers have bared all in the Hilltops Naked Farmers Calendar which is now available ahead of the new year.
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More than 30 local farmers stripped, posed and had their photo taken in an effort to raise awareness of mental health issues and rates of suicide among people living in rural areas.
Farmers Ellie Burstal and Chris Carrie had the idea of creating a naked calendar earlier this year.
With the help of photographer Chontelle Perrin, Rod De Britt, Darcy Brewer and Nick Christie in the bull ride photo, and with the support several sponsors, the idea swiftly became a reality.
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One thousand copies have been printed and can be purchased at businesses in Young or ordered on the Hilltops Naked Farmers Calendar website.
“We thought now was a good a time as any to try and get people talking about mental health issues,” Ellie said.
“Mental health services in rural areas receive 50 per cent less money than metropolitan regions despite the suicide rates of rural areas being 40 per cent higher.”
“The aim of the Hilltops Naked Farmer, apart from raising money for the local community, is to try and encourage people particuarly those living on farms and in remote areas to spark up a conversation about mental health.”
Ellie said the response from the public has been slightly mixed but she said most people are having a laugh – something those who participated did a lot of during the making.
She said some people have spoke to her about their own mental health battles or someone they know.
“I hear people talking about the calendar and they speak about mental health issues, which is what we want. We don’t want it to be a scary topic to talk about,” Ellie said.
“Having that conversation with either a family member, a friend, a neighbour, or a work colleague could end up saving someone’s life.
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“We just hope one day that talking about mental health issues can be seen as a sign of courage, alot like the courage it takes to strip naked for a photo.”
Ellie said she wants to thank everyone who was part of the making.
“I just want to thank everyone involved in making it. They know who they are. There were some specific things that needed done to complete it,” Ellie said.
Money raised will go towards a safe, transitional housing centre for men and youth in the area.
The calendar is available at Donges IGA, South West Tractors, The Stables Day Spa, Delta Agribusiness, Powderly’s Plumbing, Bribbaree Pub, Poppa’s Fudge Factory, The Long Track Pantry in Jugiong, Gilberts Books and Toys, Bargwanna and Gerard and from Nicole Grills Equine Body Therapy and the Hilltops Naked Farmers Calendar website.
