Doug Avery, AKA “The Resilient Farmer”, is bringing his UK-wide speaking tour to the Rheged Centre in Penrith on 16th October.
The tour, titled “Shift Happens! An Audience with the Resilient Farmer”, has been organised by The Farming Community Network (FCN) and Rural Support Northern Ireland. It is being held at 12 locations across England, Wales and Northern Ireland from 30th September – 18th October.
Doug, a New Zealand farmer, has received critical acclaim around the world for his unique approach to farming, the environment and mental health. After years of spiralling debts, drought and depression, he has turned his 5,900 acre farm into one of New Zealand’s most successful farming enterprises, winning several awards on the way. Doug documented his experiences in a book, also titled “The Resilient Farmer”, which has sold over 18,000 copies worldwide.
Doug will be sharing details of his experiences and the journey to where he is now with the aim of inspiring members of the farming community who are looking, or needing, to change their approach to their business and their personal life.
Doug said: “British farming is facing many challenges, with environmental issues, the power of market forces and, of course, Brexit. With this tour, I am hoping that I will be able to help those members of the farming community think their way through the situations they might find themselves in and become resilient farmers themselves. I’m delighted to be joining forces with FCN and Rural Support and I’m really looking forward to sharing my story with British farmers and hearing their stories too.”
Charles Smith, FCN Chief Executive, said: “As a charity, our workload is constantly rising, mainly due to farmers experiencing severe financial hardship, outbreaks of animal disease and the impact of adverse weather conditions. We are anticipating a significant increase in our workload after Brexit, so the timing of this tour could not be better. We are delighted that Doug has agreed to return to our shores and impart his wisdom on those who are concerned about what the future might hold for their farming business and how it might have an impact on their wellbeing.”
Tickets for the talk will cost £10 per person and will include a light supper for all attendees. Further information about the tour, including venues and details of how to book tickets, can be found at www.resilientfarmertour.co.uk.
