THE dramatic new feature film, ‘Just A Farmer’, opening at the Hamilton Cinema this week, entails the story of a resilient farmer in rural Australia and sheds a light on critical mental health issues in farming communities.

Filmed in Tatyoon, 30 km south of Ararat, ‘Just A Farmer’ is a dramatic story that portrays the challenges and triumphs, and resilience of farmers’ wives amidst heartbreak, through a universal story with a powerful emotional connection.

The film was written and produced by Leila McDougall, Tatyoon farmer and teacher, who also worked in Hamilton as an art and textiles teacher for six years.

The film describes the story of Alison (played by McDougall) who is left to manage a failing farm and an alcoholic father-in-law after her husband’s sudden death – the challenges of rural life now inescapable.

It is hoped the film will create a dedicated movement creating awareness, dismantling stigmas, and impacting the well-being of rural Australia.

Showcasing the talents of some of Australia’s finest actors; Robert Taylor, Susan Prior, Damian Walshe- Howling, Joel Jackson, Trevor Jamieson, Louise Siversen and Eddie Baroo; amongst local community members who participated as extras in filmed scenes.

Siverson may be becoming somewhat of a regular in the region, having recently been in Wannon for the filming of ‘The Returned’, due for release either late this year or early next year.

‘Just A Farmer’ director, Simon Lyndon said the mission of the film was to use the power of storytelling to illuminate the silent struggles within Australian farming communities, raising awareness of mental health issues, fostering empathy, and driving conversation around mental health.

“It’s a heartfelt journey to melt the scars etched in our hearts through the art of storytelling,” he said.

“Through (the film), my aspiration is to offer more than a narrative; it’s a call to inspire conversations, break the silence around mental health, and, in doing so, clear the imprints and melt hearts.”

‘Just A Farmer’ has merged well-known Australian talents with emerging voices, hopefully presenting a powerful cinematic representation of authentic rural farming life.

It is hoped the film will shine a light on the vital role that farmers play in our society, to help increase community appreciation and value of farmers’ in our society and translate to enhance collective farmer wellbeing.

Along with Hamilton Cinema, ‘Just A Farmer’ is premiering this week in over 100 major and independent cinemas across Australia and New Zealand.

The film is being screened locally between March 21-27, with future scheduling from April 18, with details yet to be confirmed.

Tickets are available online at hamiltoncinema.com.au or at the ticket office.