It's time to polish the tractors and prime the barbecues, because country is coming to town on Friday October 9 for an family event designed to unite rural and urban sectors in a show of solidarity and camaraderie.

Southland Federated Farmers and the Southland Chamber of Commerce have partnered to create the Town & Country Hui, from 12pm to 2pm at the Gala Street Reserve.

"The focus is “We ALL live off the land”, so what happens to rural Southland matters to everyone," the organisations said in a joint media release this week.

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"It is often said that when the primary sector sneezes, the economy catches a cold, and that is particularly true of Southland."

Participants will be able to learn about how the freshwater legislation affects the region, resilience as a province, and the things that are happening to address those issues.

Laura Douglas from The Fairlight Foundation speaking about mental wellbeing and resilience to address the current low morale.

A panel discussion, free BBQ with live music and kid-friendly activities are also being planned.

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Southland Federated Farmers President Geoffrey Young said the event was a show of unity and comradery in Southland, not a protest.

Farmers were invited to come to town in a farm vehicle, such as road worthy tractor or ute, park it up and walk to Queen's Park.

There had been little opportunity to connect with others this year, and social connection was vital to wellbeing, he said.

“The three key messages we’d like to get out to Southlanders are: The best solutions to Southland challenges will be developed in Southland; Southland can balance a healthy economy and healthy freshwater; and cultivation and planting will happen when conditions are appropriate,” he said.

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Southland Chamber of Commerce chief executive Sheree Carey said the organisation was proud to be supporting Federated Farmers and the rural sector.

“One of the reasons Southland’s economy didn’t tank through Covid was due to our strong rural economy that cushioned the blow.

“We see this event as a great way to thank them, bring all Southlanders together to show support for farmers who are currently having a really tough time,’’ Ms Carey said.

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