The stress of an expected low yield rice season was forgotten at the annual Rice Industry Field Day last week.
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Hosted by Rice Extension at Old Coree, the event attracted about 250 people including growers, leaders and stakeholders.
The field day comprised of guest speakers, field presentations, tours and a chance for growers to network.
Geelong’s Marcus Oldham College students attended as part of their irrigation tour and many had not seen rice before let alone know how it grows.
Also among the crowd were Charles Sturt University PhD students attached to the Functional Grains Centre.
Guest speaker John Harper from ‘Mate helping Mate’ delivered a simple message of looking out for each other, being positive and the need for social interaction in tough times.
Lyndi Cohen, ‘The Nude Nutritionist’, also provided an insight into healthy eating and cooking with rice.
Rice extension coordinator Troy Mauger said during the tough times for many rice growers it was important to take these types of opportunities to remain positive.
‘‘SunRice presented about their long term clients and said it’s important to keep those relationships, and look for quality and sustainability.
‘‘There was a high percentage of farmers and the event gave them a good networking and socialising chance.
‘‘John’s presentation on mental health and stress was well received. He discussed tips and tricks on how to look out for each other,’’ Mr Mauger said.
Mr Mauger also announced the launch of the SunRice Grower of the Year Awards nominations.