From the editor: Showing up, anyway.

It feels like life is geared these days to be frictionless. Thanks to advances in technology and AI, almost everything we need is at our fingertips — from grocery shopping and workouts to TV shows and music.

We can stream what we want, when we want.

We rarely have to wait for anything. And AI is only speeding that up.

While technology and AI are making their way into farming, the work itself is still hard yakka.

But outside the farm gate, life is becoming increasingly automated.

And that raises a bigger question: is all this convenience making us less willing to be inconvenienced — and what does that mean for rural communities that rely on people taking the time to show up for organisations, events and each other?

 We can’t automate community.

Because despite the fact these advances should mean we have more time, it’s worth asking what we’re actually doing with that time.

And whether we could be using some of it better.

Research shows people in rural areas are still more likely to take on community-focused, volunteer work than those in urban centres. But the reality is that the same small group often carries it. For those organising events and keeping community initiatives running, that weight can be exhausting.

Rather than focusing on what we can’t do, it’s worth thinking about what we can.

This isn’t about overloading people or taking on too much. It’s about doing something.

Got a spare five minutes? Pick up the phone and call your neighbour.

Need to grab something? Try local first.

Want to feel more connected to your community? Join a committee — even for a season.

In a UK national survey, 77 percent of volunteers said volunteering improved their mental health and wellbeing, with many saying it helped them feel less isolated.

Simply attending community events showed similar benefits.

Research has also found that regularly attending in-person community events — festivals, markets, shows and even rugby games — is linked to higher positive emotions and a stronger sense of engagement.

Rural communities thrive when people show up.

So here are five ways to do that.

1. Support local events — especially the volunteer-run ones

A&P shows, school fundraisers and field days don’t run themselves.

What keeps them alive is turning up on the day. When people stop showing up, events disappear.

2. Show up even when it doesn’t quite suit

Rural life has always relied on people helping out when it’s not ideal.

Sometimes a half-hour car ride to an event or a meeting feels like the last thing you want to do. But often, once you’re there, it’s worth it.

3. Back local businesses — consistently

Local contractors, suppliers and cafés keep small towns going. Choosing them where you can keeps money local and people in work.

4. Make time for connection

A chat at the gate, staying for the cuppa, or saying yes to a shared meal all matter more than we like to admit.

5. Give the next generation a chance

Rural communities don’t continue by default. They continue because someone younger is given room to learn and step up.

That means trusting young farmers, staff and rural kids with responsibility. Sharing knowledge — how things work, why decisions get made, what you’ve learned along the way.

Connection is never a waste of time.