Around 15 growers came together on Friday 16 January at MJ Halls for a Shed Talk and Orchard Walk, bringing together farmer wellbeing conversations and practical orchard insights.
The afternoon began with a Shed Talk session led by Nikole Schellekens, a Bass Coast beef farmer and mental health social worker with over 20 years’ experience supporting rural communities. Nikole founded Shed Talk to provide practical, supportive tools to help farmers look after themselves and each other, particularly during challenging times. Growers engaged in open, honest discussion, sharing experiences and practical strategies in a relaxed and supportive environment.
Following Shed Talk, attendees moved into the orchard for a field walk through the new-season Gala apple blocks. Michael Crisera from Fruit Growers Victoria conducted a maturity test on the Gala apples, providing valuable insights into fruit development and harvest readiness.
A sincere thank you to Shane Hall and Jordan Hall for generously hosting the event at MJ Halls. We also acknowledge and thank the National Centre for Farmer Health and Greater Shepparton City Council for sponsoring the event and supporting initiatives that strengthen both grower wellbeing and industry connection.
The event highlighted the value of coming together to support one another while sharing practical, on-farm knowledge.
