The committee, comprising of young enthusiastic professionals from across the Wimmera district, say the event promises to be a fun and relaxed afternoon of lawn bowls and socialising, complete with free fingerfood and a welcome drink.

"Raising Dust is all about creating networks between young rural people in our region and developing a sense of community and friendship for those who live and work here," Raising Dust vice-president, John Keynes said.

"The barefoot bowls will be a good laugh and an informal catch-up with all of our members, as well as any potential members."

Barefoot bowls will be held at the Stawell Bowling Club, Napier Street from 1pm-3.30pm on Sunday, April 20, and is open to all current and potential Raising Dust members. The cost for current members (including everyone who attended the gala ball last December) is $5, and the cost for non-members is $10.

It's a busy time for the Raising Dust committee, with plans well underway for two rural youth leadership forums next month. The first event is a dinner forum in Great Western with dynamic young businesswoman Kimberly Palmer (May 9). The second forum (May 23) at the Stawell Entertainment Centre will focus on following your dreams, including obtaining financial independence and achieving success in your field. More information about the forums will be released closer to the event.

Funds raised by the group last year are being used to bring an innovative mental health program to regional Victoria. Thanks to Raising Dust, a team from the Red Cross Talk Out Loud program will educate high school students in Horsham and Ararat about mental health next month.

For further enquiries please email enquiries@raisingdust.com.au or visit

www.raisingdust.com.au.