Summer may have arrived a little late this year, but there's still plenty of reason to step off the farm, slip on your best cowboy boots, and celebrate the season in style.

Mid Canterbury farmers are invited to unwind, connect, and recharge at the Farming Families Charitable Trust’s End of Summer Session on April 5.

“It’s a chance to get off the farm, connect, relax and catch up,” event co-organiser Jayne Hansen says.

The event, held at the MSA Ashburton Club, promises an unforgettable night with live music from rising country star Brad Staley.

A Timaru native, Staley has made a name for himself with over 25,000 followers on Spotify and 70,000 streams in 2024 alone., and a series of sold-out shows across the country.

“Having Brad on the line-up is a huge drawcard. He knows how to bring a crowd,” Hansen said

Ashburton’s own award-winning country musician, 15-year-old Molly Harrison, will be opening the event.

Tickets are available at a special early bird price of just $45 until March 15, after which they will rise to $60.

For those looking to make a bigger splash, tables for ten are available at only $40 per person—a great way to treat your staff to a well-earned night off.

“We’re really encouraging people to bring their team along. It’s a chance to give them a break and have some fun off the farm,” says Hansen.

Co-organiser Frances Beeston said the Trust wanted to keep tickets affordable after what has been a challenging year for farmers.

“We want people to bring their family and friends, have a feed, have some drinks and enjoy some music because times have been tough.”

In addition to food and entertainment, the event will include an auction to raise money for The Farming Families Charitable Trust, which was created to strengthen the Mid Canterbury community in the aftermath of the mycoplasma bovis outbreak.

While the Trust has previously hosted formal balls, this year’s event is all about keeping things casual and fun.

“The feedback we received made it clear that people didn’t want to get dressed up for another ball. The End of Summer Session is designed to be more relaxed, a chance to enjoy a low-key night with good food and good music,” Beeston explains.

A link to tickets will be posted on the Farming Families Charitable Trust Facebook page in early February.

What: The End of Summer Session

Where: MSA Ashburton Club

When: April 5, 7 pm – 12 pm

Tickets:

Early bird: $45 per person

Bulk 10+: $40 per person

After March 15:  $60

By Claire Inkson