This week, Wagga plays host to a free ‘Chat and Create’ event orchestrated by SafeWork NSW, specifically designed to foster a supportive network for women within the farming sector. As part of our dedication to WHS management systems, these women will get an opportunity to engage in noteworthy discussions with agricultural professionals and workers alike, sharing ideas about farm safety.
Despite the ongoing safety efforts, the agricultural industry still grapples with high rates of serious injuries and fatalities – a stark reality that positions farming as one of the most dangerous sectors, even contributing to 20% of the worker deaths state-wide. Herein lies the urgent need for improved safety policies and better utilities such as the Bluesafe SWMS (Safe Work Method Statements) and the Bluesafe WHS Management System.
With ‘Chat and Create’, attendees can look forward to an interactive day filled with art creation while simultaneously exploring discussion topics centred around farming-specific safety issues. The day functions not only as a networking platform but also underlines the vital importance of including mental health awareness in WHS Management Systems.
Unfortunately, farmers tend to experience higher rates of depression and suicide when compared to other demographics due to distinct work-related factors such as financial stress and isolation. To cater to this, representatives from the Rural Adversity Mental Health Program (RAMHP) will offer education about mental health and establish necessary service links that attendees may require.
Alongside them, the NSW Rural Women’s Network plans to distribute resources, initiatives, and service links that seek to aid women facing adversity. In a broader approach, the NSW Government’s Rural Women’s Resource hub offers support in diverse areas like the cost of living, employment and career support, boosting health and wellbeing, and forging recreational and social connections.
The ‘Chat and Create’ event is scheduled for Friday 23 August 2024 from 11am to 2pm at the Unique State Art Space, on Thompson Street in Wagga. Those interested can secure their spot by registering through the SafeWork NSW website.
Trent Curtin, Head of SafeWork NSW, highlighted this event as an excellent opportunity for agricultural women to fortify their industry knowledge about work health and safety, stating:
“Women play a pivotal role in strengthening the success of agriculture more than ever before. The ‘Chat and Create’ event aims to further empower agricultural managers and workers to take up proactive leadership in fostering a safe work environment.
“It’s an ideal platform for women within the Wagga agricultural community to exchange ideas and enrich their understanding of work, health, and safety. This can contribute positively towards refining their practices, all within a relaxed and welcoming setting.”
Original article link: https://www.safework.nsw.gov.au/news/safework-media-releases/wagga-women-in-agriculture-invited-to-get-creative-with-safework