Over 70 players from across South Waikato and beyond gathered at Putāruru Squash Club on 16 and 17 May for a very special tournament for our farming community. The event was supported by South Waikato Investment Fund Trust (SWIFT), with teams and individuals coming together for some healthy competitive fun and a chance to meet outside the farm gate.
SWIFT’s operations manager, Shannon Double, who attended alongside a number of the organisation’s partners and stakeholders, said it was an amazing event.
“One of SWIFT’s key drivers is to support and enhance social connections in our community, so events like this really help bring this goal to life,” says Shannon.
“There has been a fair bit of recent research about the scale of the mental health issue in New Zealand’s farming workforce. So, with farming being so much at the heart of South Waikato community, we were also keen to do what we can to help Putāruru Squash Club make this a fantastic tournament.”
The Putāruru squash tournament, open to all grades, singles or doubles, creates a valuable opportunity for farmers in and around South Waikato to make social connections, enjoy some physical activity and strengthen connections within their community.
Across research by organisations such as DairyNZ and an ACC-funded study for Farmstrong, figures suggest that around two-thirds of farmers report that they have experienced mental health struggles. Economic pressures and the unique stresses of the farm environment, as well as the risks of social isolation and loneliness, are major contributors.
“It was great to be able to support an event like this that is highlighted such an important message for our farming community,” says SWIFT Chief Executive”
SWIFT not only supported the event financially but also with spot prizes of vouchers and a pair of Red Bands, which were won by R J Cook and his double partners Kyro Stevens, who are regular players in the farmers’ tournament.
“We’re grateful to SWIFT, and to our other sponsor, Mojoe Ltd, for helping us host this event and bring farmers together,” said event organiser, Nelly Hotham. “It was wonderful to see such a great turn-out from our farming friends, both as players and supporters.”
