General News
7 June, 2024
Business breakfast with Leila McDougall
LEILA McDougall will chronicle her remarkable journey from farmer to filmmaker at a business breakfast at the Lady Bay next Tuesday, June 11.
During the COVID pandemic, Ms McDougall had the idea to create a feature film with a message about mental health in rural communities.
Despite having no experience in the film industry, she succeeded.
‘Just a Farmer’ premiered in March this year, with much of the filming taking place in Leila’s home town of Tatyoon, just north of Lake Bolac.
The farmer turned screenwriter, actor and producer was also featured on Australian Story in April.
Ms McDougall said she was looking forward to coming to Warrnambool.
“Nothing makes me happier than sharing ‘Just A Farmer’ with regional communities as this is who I wrote the film for,” she said.
“To share the message about the vital role farmers have in ensuring food security and to be able to shine a light on farmer mental health is why I wrote the film.
“If this film helps just one farmer, then I’ve done my job.”
Warrnambool mayor Cr Ben Blain said Leila McDougall was proof that despite the odds, if you truly believe in something, you can achieve it.
“Not only has Leila overcome some significant obstacles in her own life, she has committed to doing what she can to help others with their own struggles,” he said.
“She has a really powerful message that I’m sure will resonate with a wide audience, and hopefully inspire everyone to look after themselves as well as their friends, family and colleagues.
“While her journey is unique, I’m sure she will have some insights about how her resilient attitude could be applied to any number of other areas.
“A business breakfast like this is also a really great chance to catch up with other members of the South West business community, and as Leila will explain, these personal connections and sense of comradery with your peers are just so important.”
Tickets can be purchased online at www.eventbrite.com.au by searching “Leila McDougall”.
Alternatively, you can contact the Warrnambool City Council’s economic development team on 5559 4800.
