It is with deep sadness that the community of Naracoorte and broader South Australia mourns the passing of Craig Hole, a well-known and respected farmer who tragically died by suicide. Craig passed away in early May 2025, leaving behind a legacy of hard work, kindness, and quiet strength. His untimely death has sent ripples through the local agricultural and rural communities, prompting both grief and reflection.
Craig Hole was a dedicated farmer whose deep roots in the Naracoorte region connected him to generations of South Australian land and tradition. Known for his tireless work ethic and unwavering commitment to the land, Craig played a vital role in supporting local agriculture. Whether it was long days in the paddocks or supporting fellow farmers through tough seasons, Craig was the kind of person people could count on — steady, humble, and dependable.
Beyond his work on the farm, Craig was a devoted family man and loyal friend. He had a reputation for lending a helping hand without hesitation, for speaking honestly and kindly, and for putting others before himself. His love for his community was evident in how he showed up — at events, in times of crisis, and in small everyday moments. Those who knew him will remember his dry sense of humor, quiet wisdom, and the deep care he showed for people and the land.
Craig’s passing is not only a personal loss to his family and friends but also a heartbreaking reminder of the mental health challenges faced by many in Australia’s rural areas. Farming can be isolating and incredibly stressful, and Craig’s death brings renewed attention to the importance of mental health support in remote and farming communities. His story, though painful, opens a conversation about how we care for each other — especially the caretakers among us who are often struggling in silence.
He is survived by a loving family, including his partner, children, extended relatives, and a wide circle of friends and community members who admired and respected him. As they navigate unimaginable grief, they have expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support shown in recent days. The community has responded with compassion, offering condolences and sharing memories that speak to the impact Craig made in his lifetime.
A memorial service will be held in Naracoorte in the coming week, where friends, family, and fellow farmers will gather to honor Craig’s life, share stories, and say goodbye. His legacy will endure in the fields he tended, the community he served, and in the hearts of those who loved him.
In this time of sorrow, Craig’s family encourages anyone struggling with mental health to reach out for help. His passing serves as a powerful and painful reminder that even the strongest among us need support. Let us remember Craig with kindness, love, and a renewed commitment to looking after one another.
If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out to Lifeline Australia at 13 11 14. Help is always available.
