Rural resilience: Keynote by Leila McDougall
Presented by Finwell Support

Join us for Rural resilience: Keynote by Leila McDougall and breakfast presented by Finwell Support.
This event is tailored for primary producers in the Surf Coast Hinterland region, aiming to foster resilience and develop strong rural communities.

LEILA MDOUGALL is a dynamic entrepreneur, filmmaker, and advocate whose roots in rural Australia have profoundly shaped her purpose and passion. Raised on a sheep farm in Walcha, New South Wales, Leila’s journey—from fashion designer to rural teacher to filmmaker—reflects her unyielding commitment to celebrating and uplifting farming communities. Her film, Just A Farmer, is a testament to this commitment. Produced on her family farm in Tatyoon, Victoria, with a budget exceeding $1.7 million, the film explores the unspoken realities of rural life, focusing on mental health and the critical contributions of farming families. More than just a feature film, Just A Farmer has become a catalyst for conversation, encouraging communities to connect and foster deeper understanding.

But Leila’s influence extends far beyond titles and accolades. She is a farmer, a mentor, a role model, a working mum, and a storyteller who uses her platform to shine a light on the often invisible challenges of rural life. Her work inspires communities to see the power of possibility in their own stories, fostering resilience and hope in even the most challenging times.
With every project, Leila remains unwavering in her mission: to spark meaningful conversations, bring hidden challenges into the spotlight, and unite communities through shared understanding and hope. Driven by a vision for a stronger and more connected nation, she continues to use her voice and her work to inspire action and amplify the resilience of rural Australia.

Her journey is far from over—Leila’s determination to spread this message of possibility and perseverance is as boundless as the landscapes that inspire her. Just A Farmer carries a message that echoes far and wide: when we share our stories, listen to one another, and stand together in support, we can build a future filled with strength, connection, and possibility for all.

Details:
7.30am: Doors open (Breakfast, tea and coffee served)
7.45am: Welcome
8.00am: Keynote Speaker: Leila McDougall
(Breakfast served throughout the session)
9am - 10am: Networking
Free, but registrations required.
BREAK

Followed by:
10.30am - 1.30pm: Small Business coffee and chat drop in session
Attention small business owners in Winchelsea and the Surf coast Hinterland.
Do you need help understanding your financial position, identifying and applying for grants, negotiating with lenders/creditors, or accessing referrals to professional services, including wellbeing support? These are just a few of the services offered by the Rural financial Counselling Service (RFCS).
Join us for a Small business coffee and chat drop-in at the Winchelsea Shire Hall on Friday 2 May, to speak with staff including Small Business and Rural Financial Counsellors. Staff from the Surf Coast Business Concierge team will also be on hand to assist with your small business queries.
We look forward to meeting you.
Free tea and coffee and light catering provided. Registrations not required.

Car parking available at venue. This venue is accessible but please contact business@surfcoast.vic.gov.au if you require additional support to attend these events.
Questions? Please contact: business@surfoast.vic.gov.au

Presented by Finwell Support, Rural Financial Counselling Service and the Surf Coast Shire business team.