New Zealand — Wayne Langford, the president of Federated Farmers, has been appointed to the board of the Mental Health and Wellbeing Commission for a five-year term. The announcement was made by Mental Health Minister Matt Doocey and Rural Communities Minister Mark Patterson.
Langford is the owner and operator of Go Ahead Farms 2015 Limited, a dairy farm located in Golden Bay, Tasman. He brings extensive experience in board membership with several organizations dedicated to supporting mental health, particularly in rural and remote communities.
“Wayne is well-respected in the agricultural industry, and his deep understanding of rural New Zealand equips him with a unique perspective on the mental health needs of these communities,” Doocey stated. “As we see rising mental health concerns in rural areas, particularly following recent events impacting their livelihoods, Langford’s advocacy for mental health and wellbeing in these regions will be invaluable.”
Patterson echoed this sentiment, highlighting Langford’s personal experience with mental health challenges and his commitment to enhancing wellbeing. “His insights as a farmer from a smaller community will greatly inform the commission’s work,” he added.
Langford will fill an existing vacancy on the board, contributing to the commission’s mission of improving mental health services and awareness across New Zealand.
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