WITH the region’s drought conditions giving all of us a bloody good kicking financially, mentally and emotionally, it’s more important than ever to take time for ourselves.
Whether that’s having a chinwag over the fence with a neighbour or getting together at local sports, getting out and about is what bush people do.
These qualities were once again on full display at this year’s AgQuip.
Sure, the smell of steak sandwiches may fill your nostrils – but the sound of conversation, wherever you were, filled the air.
It’s no secret that AgQuip is a mammoth event with something for everyone, and this year was no different.
But there is one thing that binds together anyone that attends the annual event.
Having a chat.
It may be with one of the 3000 exhibitors that are strutting their stuff or with a friend you haven’t seen for a while.
Everyone loves a good conversation, especially when times are tough.
In this humble reporter’s opinion, the ability to have a chat with anyone is one of the true pleasures of living in the country.
Sure, everyone is busy; we all know someone or many people who at the moment are spending most of their day feeding stock.
But a chat can accomplish so much.
With support like Local Land Services and the Rural Financial Counselling Service on hand at AgQuip, the conversation was constant. To me, that is good to see.
The conversation won’t and shouldn’t stop there.
These services are in it for the long haul, much like all of us who are experiencing this drought first-hand.
While some may not be sure if the support they need is on offer from these services, take it from me: there is no harm in asking.
Visiting these and the many other support services stands throughout AgQuip was truly eye-opening.
To see the variety and diversity that was on offer was pleasing, to say the least.
My hat goes off to AgQuip’s organisers for encouraging these services to come on board and showcase what support is on offer.
If you didn’t make it to AgQuip, there are plenty of ways to reach out and discover what support is available.
Or if a chat is more your speed rest, assured: this reporter’s ears are always open.
Billy Jupp
Billy is a Senior Livestock Journalist for the Queensland Country Life based in Toowoomba. He has worked for a variety of different ACM mastheads during the past five years including the Namoi Valley Independent, Northern Daily Leader and The Land.
Billy is a Senior Livestock Journalist for the Queensland Country Life based in Toowoomba. He has worked for a variety of different ACM mastheads during the past five years including the Namoi Valley Independent, Northern Daily Leader and The Land.
