WELL known Australian actor John Wood called in to Senator John Williams’ office last week to discuss the slashing of the government’s Drought Assistance Package in the Budget, and he received a sympathetic hearing.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Mr Wood is currently touring with the play Carpe Diem, funded by a part of the package. The performance highlights issues of mental health in the bush, and it is a program that he thinks is doing some great work among stressed regional communities.
“We’ve melted a few hearts so far, and it is good,” Mr Wood said.
“We’ve played the bigger towns in the past, but this is the first time where you’re actually sitting in a room and you can see everybody’s face. It’s been wonderful.”
We’ve melted a few hearts so far, and it is good.
- John Wood
Senator Williams said it was very important that the programs were brought to his attention.
“You get to see the nuts and bolts of what these people are doing to literally save lives,” Senator Williams said.
“People get under a lot of pressure on the land, droughts, financial problems, low commodity prices, you name it. It all adds up to the ducks lined up to disaster.
You get to see the nuts and bolts of what these people are doing to literally save lives.
- John Williams
“I’ll be doing my utmost to see that the funding is continued. And if Barnaby can’t get to one of these shows, I want to get a DVD of it so he can sit down and watch it.”
Interrelate has provided support to the drought effected communities in Far West NSW since July 2014, and hopes that eventuates. On Wednesday last week, chief executive officer for the community based, not-for-profit organisation, Patricia Occelli, said she was extremely disappointed with the government’s decision.
“We are just one of many community service organisations who will be impacted by these cuts. Where will our clients go for help once these services have been withdrawn?” she asked.
“We know that for many of our clients, the drought is far from over and our staff have seen firsthand the emotional toll continued drought has taken on individuals, families, relationships and communities.”
Carpe Diem is a short two-man play based around a farmer who is suffering from some mental health issues and his stock agent mate who helps him out. Last night it was staged at Moree Town & Country Club, and this week it will visit other venues in the local region.
Tonight it will be staged at North Star Sporting Club, then at Croppa Creek Sporting Club tomorrow night. On Thursday night it will be at Collatai Hall, then at Friday night it’s at Gravesend Sport & Rec Club, and Yetman Hall on Saturday evening.
The play starts at 6.30pm, except for the performances at Gravesend and Yetman, which start at 7pm. Carpe Diem is touring as part of the Australian Government Drought Assistance Package. A free BBQ at the conclusion of the show will provide an opportunity to meet John Wood.
The production is suitable for ages 15 plus.