The events are the second phase of a two-part initiative being rolled out by Gwydir Shire Council to assist its farming community through the devastating financial, social and emotional effects of the current drought.

The first phase, which took place last week, saw more than 60 community members take part in Mental Health Support Skills training.

The free three and a half hour workshops equipped participants with the skills to identify the signs and symptoms of common and disabling mental health problems, how to provide initial help, where and how to get professional help, what sort of help has been shown by research to be effective, and how to provide help in crisis situations.

The second phase, which will kick off next week in Gravesend, will see a series of events run to show support for our farming communities.

These events, which will take place in each of the seven towns and villages within the shire, will take the form of social evenings complete with a hearty meal and cold drinks.

A range of drought assistance services and agencies will be in attendance and will be able to provide advice and assistance to those in need.

This will be an opportunity for landholders to gain much needed information about what's available to them in a social setting.

"The main aim of these events is to disseminate as much information to as many people in our shire as possible, about what help is available without having to travel to a major centre," Gwydir Shire Council's social services manager Suzanne Webber said.

"These events will be held of an evening so that our farmers are not required to be off farm at a time when they are most needed."

Council's drought support initiative is made possible thanks to a grant provided by the Hunter New England and Central Coast Primary Health Network, which aims to deliver events and services to communities experiencing tough times due to extreme drought conditions.

These funds were sourced following concerns raised by council's elected representatives at a recent Gwydir Shire Council meeting, as well an increase in calls to the council's social services department from residents seeking help and advice.

Ms Webber said she has taken many calls from people who are confused and frustrated because they don't seem to know where to go to for help.

"The majority of people that I have spoken with across the shire are concerned for the health and wellbeing of their families, especially their partners and children," Ms Webber said.

The Gwydir Farming Families Gatherings will take place in Gravesend on Wednesday, March 27; Upper Horton on Thursday, March 28; Bingara on Friday, March 29; Warialda on Tuesday, April 2; Coolatai on Wednesday, April 3; North Star on Wednesday, April 10; and Croppa Creek on Thursday, April 11. For more information contact Georgia Standerwick on 0409 901 540.