Rural Aid Expands Mental Health Support in Western Queensland with New Counsellor Appointment
Rural Aid is proud to announce the appointment of Mark Noller as its new counsellor based in Dalby, strengthening mental health and wellbeing support across Western Queensland. Mark will provide on-farm counselling, attend community events, and work closely with local towns as part of Rural Aid’s ongoing commitment to the region following the severe floods that occurred during Match and April last year and will assist with the current flood event impacting Northwest Queensland.
With a strong background in agriculture as both an agronomist and a farmer, Mark brings firsthand experience of rural life and the unique challenges farming families face. As a qualified counsellor, he combines practical agricultural knowledge with professional mental health expertise, supporting communities in managing stress, financial pressures, and the lasting impacts of natural disasters.
Rural Aid’s Chief Executive Officer John Warlters said the appointment highlights the organisation’s dedication to long-term support.
“We are thrilled to welcome Mark to the Rural Aid team. His deep understanding of rural life, combined with his counselling expertise, ensures our farming communities have accessible, trusted support long after the immediate disaster response has ended. This appointment reflects our ongoing commitment to the resilience and wellbeing of rural communities.”
The creation of this role was made possible thanks to the generous support of our donors and corporate partners, demonstrating the incredible impact of community and business support. Mr Warlters explained, “this is a perfect example of how public generosity directly strengthens rural communities. It allows us to provide professional, on-the-ground support in areas where it’s needed most.”
Mr Noller shared his enthusiasm for joining the team.
“I’m excited about this opportunity for us to collaborate and tackle the unique challenges faced in our rural communities. These challenges are real, but so are the strengths and resilience that define life in the bush. With the support of Rural Aid, my goal is to serve as a strong link – someone who keeps communication flowing both ways. By sharing ideas, listening to one another, and working together, we can create solutions that make a difference not just today, but in the short, medium, and long term.”
Rural Aid’s focus on long-term support ensures that help is available not just during immediate crises but throughout recovery and rebuilding phases. By providing visible, accessible mental health services, the organisation helps farming families navigate challenges while fostering stronger, more resilient communities.
For more information, or to access Rural Aid’s mental health and wellbeing services, visit www.ruralaid.org.au/mental-health-wellbeing.
About Rural Aid:
Rural Aid is Australia’s leading rural charity, committed to supporting farmers and rural communities through good times and tough. Since 2015, Rural Aid has been a vital lifeline in times of hardship, delivering practical assistance such as mental health counselling, hay, drinking water, and community connection initiatives. Now celebrating 10 years of service, the organisation continues to stand shoulder to shoulder with rural Australians, helping them overcome hardship, build resilience, and create stronger, more sustainable futures.
For media inquiries or to arrange interviews, please contact:
Daniel Brown
Media and Communications Officer
0447 116 757
daniel.brown@ruralaid.org.au