Mid Canterbury’s strong sense of community was on full display at the 2025 Ruralco Golf Classic, with $10,000 raised to support local farmers’ mental health and wellbeing through the Mid Canterbury Rural Support Trust (MCRST).

Held on Friday, April 11 at Tinwald Golf Course, the event attracted over 100 players from across the region.

100% of proceeds from entries, raffles and on-course challenges from the event went directly to the MCRST.

Ruralco chief executive Tony Aitken said the result highlights the company's deep roots in the local farming community.

“We are here for Mid Canterbury farmers, that’s who we are,” Aitken said.

“It aligns with our local business because our purpose is around lowering farm input costs to make things easier for farmers.

“We get to address farmer wellbeing by enabling the Mid Canterbury Rural Support Trust to do their job.”

The Trust offers free, confidential support and wellbeing services to farmers and rural families facing personal or professional challenges.

Frances Beeston, MCRST Coordinator, said the donation will go directly toward initiatives that strengthen community support networks.

“The money will go towards initiatives such as counselling to support individuals, and we are also planning a rural professional’s breakfast,” she said.

The breakfast will give vets, stock agents and other professionals who are touch points for farmers knowledge of the resources available if they are concerned about a customer or colleague.

“They are the people who have the eyes and ears on farmers.

“It’s a holistic approach: Everybody is looking after everybody.”

The event was supported by Ballance Agri-Nutrients and Nutrien Ag Solutions as platinum sponsors, with FMG backing the popular Vintage Putt Off.

Numerous local businesses donated raffle prizes to help boost fundraising efforts.

Aitken expressed his gratitude to all who made the event possible.

“We are incredibly grateful to everyone who took part, whether by playing, sponsoring, or donating.

“This event was about more than just a round of golf — it was a show of solidarity and support for the people at the heart of our rural community.

“We are especially proud that the funds raised will stay local and directly assist Mid Canterbury farmers and their families.”

The impact of the Rural Support Trust (RST) extends beyond the Mid Canterbury region.

A recently released national Social Impact Report, commissioned by Fonterra and conducted by the Ākina Foundation, revealed the Rural Support network creates between $4.60 and $5.50 in social value for every $1 invested.

Rural Support Trust national chairperson Michelle Ruddell said the findings validate the Trust’s mission.

“Our purpose is to empower primary producers, their families and our rural communities with the support, tools and networks necessary to foster social connection and build business and personal resilience.”

The report found that 94% of people who engaged with RST felt less stress, and mental wellbeing improved by an average of 5.4 points on a 10-point scale.

“Our ongoing work in destigmatising mental health challenges and normalising asking for help is critical to building strengthened rural communities,” Ruddell said.

“We want people to feel comfortable to reach out early before things feel out of control and we’re here to support regardless of the situation.”

Ruralco intends to continue its partnership with the Mid Canterbury Rural Support Trust and make the Ruralco Golf Classic an annual highlight on the rural calendar.