COVID-19 lockdown period was a tough time for Goulburn local Ashleigh who felt very isolated and alone.
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In March, she fell ill and had to leave her job.
"Leaving my job, being unwell and feeling isolated on a farm was very challenging," she said.
The experience led the 24-year-old to create a group in Goulburn for girls in rural areas called 'Girls Kickin Up The Country'.
"By creating this platform, I could personally connect and help other women get in touch with each other. I wanted to form a space where women could connect, feel empowered, supported, and understood," she said.
"Not all girls or women living on farms are able to leave often and it can be isolating and challenging. Through our virtual meetups, we hope to give them a place to form friendships and connect with other like-minded women."
As a young teenager, Ashleigh has struggled with depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts.
"As the years passed, I have recovered, but at times depression and anxiety are still great struggles of mine," she said.
"From my personal experience, mental health can be so misunderstood and can make you feel alienated. I want women to no longer feel ashamed or isolated from their struggles."
The group was launched in Goulburn on June 26 and have their first meeting next month.
The 4WD club aims to connect women all around the country in a "safe, empowering, loving and positive environment".
"Unlike other 4WD clubs, we are using this platform and the future trips to encourage a chat and open the conversation about mental health," Ashleigh said.
"'Girls Kickin Up The Country' is there for women to no longer feel embarrassed or isolated by what they feel. Mental health is real and it's different for every woman. It's important that women feel they are heard and not alienated.
"Our camp trips will also focus on offering meditation and coaching sessions. Additionally, we will use this platform for educational purposes and the promotion of wellness."
If you want to be a part of their meeting on August 1, you can email gkutc.aus@gmail.com to get more information.
"We will gather around and meet one another, discuss our first NSW trip location idea and on the night have a raffle which the funds will be donated to Beyond Blue," she said.
Beyond Blue is a non-profit organisation working to address issues associated with depression, suicide, anxiety disorders and other related mental illnesses.
They are also planning to launch their school programs in rural areas, including Goulburn, for year 11 and 12 students in 2021 focusing on health, wellbeing, and safe driving.
"In memory of my friend Shannon Lowden who tragically lost her life in 2019, I am hoping to develop a 4WD safety course in her memory," Ashleigh said.
"My goal is for all young teens starting out driving to be well-informed and equipped with the skills and knowledge to safely enjoy 4WD and driving in general.
"Additionally, our programs will focus on wellbeing, sexual health, physical health, and self-defense. We want young teenagers to feel they are well informed with the tools and knowledge to safely and confidently attend events and life activities in their future."
'Girls Kickin Up The Country' has several sub groups created specifically to connect and support women affected by domestic violence, sexual abuse, drug and alcohol abuse, and disability/special needs.
The group has an ambassador in every state of Australia that connects women in their state.
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