Farmstrong launches new set of resources

Module Overview

Farmstrong is excited to announce the launch of its free Getting Through resources focussing on how farmers and growers impacted by the devastating cyclones and floods of 2023 managed and came out the other side.

The new Getting Through resources, which were created in partnership with Rural Support Trust, include a book (pictured above), podcasts as well as a website featuring videos and topic related advice from experts. The website and videos will be launched around October, so keep a look out.

They feature stories from farmers and growers who got through the extreme weather events, as well as practical information and advice from experts.

Getting back on your feet after an extreme weather event takes time and involves months, if not years, of hard work and it’s hoped the new resources will help people deal with future adverse weather events.

One of the new resources is a glossy 130-page book called Getting Through: What it Takes to Recover From Extreme Weather Events.

In the book, farmers and growers share their experiences and what helped (and didn’t help) when trying to get back on their feet after the life-changing weather events.

The book is a collection of hard-won wisdom and practical tips that acknowledges the realities of a long-haul recovery, while also offering a way forward, and first-hand advice that can help others who may find themselves in a similar situation in the future.

The book also includes insights from experts and organisations that worked alongside affected communities and is full of practical advice including a 20-page toolkit of mental skills and thinking strategies based on the latest wellbeing science.

Message of hope

In the book’s introduction, Farmstrong ambassador Sam Whitelock talks about visiting flood-affected farmers and growers and noticing how many people mentioned the importance of tapping into local knowledge.

“People who could put what had happened into some sort of perspective. People with practical advice you could follow on farm or orchard. People who could act as a bit of a roadmap or sounding board for what lay ahead,” Sam explains.

“The main message of this book is a hopeful one – people can get through extremely challenging times. Families rally round, neighbours support one another, communities come together, and sector organisations act as essential advocates.”

He also thanks everybody who contributed to the book.

“I know these events are still raw for many people, so I’d like to salute the courage of the farmers and growers who feature in this resource for ‘going there’. We really appreciate your honesty and openness.”

To order a free copy of the new book, email info@farmstrong.co.nz