WA to host national event with Active Farmer Games on their way to Torbay

Farmers from across the country will flock to Torbay in October for the Active Farmers Games — the first time the national event will be held in WA.

Torbay, west of Albany, was announced this week as the location for the annual games, which raise awareness of mental and physical health.

Albany’s Boyd Rae runs Active Farmers Great Southern, taking fitness classes to small towns and communities in the region.

Last year, he took teams to the games in NSW, where they tackled hay bale climbs, tyre-pulls and flips, piggybacks, swimming, and mud-crawls.

Mr Rae said when he heard the Games could not be held in NSW this year because of COVID-19, he started working to bring them to the Great Southern. “The Active Farmers Games is an event that aims to raise awareness of the importance of physical and mental health, and in addition to inspire more men to get active,” he said.

“The course is designed to mimic challenges we may face in real farming life ... and some not so realistic challenges, and how these can be better overcome with a team by your side.”

Mr Rae said he and his team had a big but enjoyable job ahead of them, bringing to life their planned obstacles for the course.

He hoped hosting the Games would be good for the region.

“We are bringing all kinds of people together from across this country that enjoy being active, enjoy catching up with mates and challenging themselves in new and exciting ways,” he said.

“Albany and the surrounding areas are absolutely beautiful, there is so much on offer, and all those attending will surely take advantage of what the Albany region has to offer.

“This is a national event, so if the powers that be allow it, people will be travelling from all across Australia to attend.

“I have already had several people confirm from over east that they will be coming if the borders are open.

“I am excited for participants to bring their whole families, explore the area, and go home with a great feeling of accomplishment.”

The event is public however numbers will be capped. Spectators and volunteers to man obstacles are encouraged.

Registrations will open on Tuesday, June 1.

For details of the event, find Active Farmers on Facebook or Instagram.