At the heart of FFV’s mission is a commitment to supporting initiatives that make a tangible difference in people’s lives. One such project we are immensely proud to have supported is Just A Farmer, a feature film tackling one of the most pressing issues facing rural and regional communities - mental health and suicide prevention. FFV was honoured to host filmmaker Leila McDougal as guest speaker at the annual 1889 Bequest Society lunch – an event to thank our supporters and partners. Hearing of the impact of our support from Leila herself was a very humbling experience.
A timely intervention
Our assistance came at a critical moment, ensuring the film could move from production to cinemas and reach the audiences who needed it most. During our annual supporters’ lunch, filmmaker Leila openly shared her gratitude, emphasising that our support at the eleventh hour was pivotal in bringing the film to life.
The idea for the movie was born out of Mellow in the Yellow, a community-driven mental health event founded by Leila and her husband in 2014. When COVID-19 made it impossible to host in-person events, they turned to filmmaking as a way to continue the conversation around suicide, loss, and healing.
A film with purpose
Unlike traditional documentaries, Just A Farmer is deeply personal, focusing on the families and communities left behind after suicide. Having never made a film before, Leila and her team learned as they went, ensuring that every participant involved was committed to the project for the right reasons. Their goal was simple but profound: if the film could save even one life, it would be worth it.
Since its release 12 months ago, the film’s impact has grown, particularly in the last six months. Mental health stigma remains a significant barrier in regional communities, where suicide rates are disproportionately high—men in rural areas are 75% more likely to die by suicide than their metropolitan counterparts. With 11 suicides occurring daily in Australia (9 of them men), films like Just A Farmer play a crucial role in sparking conversations and offering hope.
Real impact, real conversations
Each screening attracts between 150 to 300 people, with local mental health support networks on hand to provide assistance. Perhaps the most powerful outcome is the discussions that happen after the film—people opening up, sharing their stories, and seeking help for the first time.
Feedback from audiences has been overwhelmingly positive:
64% found the film thought-provoking, sparking conversations with family and friends.
81% felt more comfortable discussing mental health after watching.
93% knew someone who needed help but might not attend a public event—highlighting the film’s unique ability to reach those who may otherwise struggle in silence.
97% believed Just A Farmer is an effective tool for mental health awareness and suicide prevention.
Looking ahead
The film has resonated far beyond Australia, with farmers around the world relating to its message. Just A Farmer has now received 12 awards and is available on Apple TV, further expanding its reach.
Currently, 90 communities have expressed interest in screening the film, but many lack the necessary funding. The filmmakers are actively fundraising to take the film on a national roadshow, ensuring it reaches those who need it most.
How you can help
We encourage lodges and community groups to get involved by sponsoring screenings in their regions. If you or your lodge would like to support this important initiative, please reach out—we can connect you with Leila and her team to help bring Just A Farmer to your community.
Together, we can continue breaking the silence around mental health and ensure no one has to struggle alone.
