Some one million adult Australians battle depression, often in silence, withdrawing from their families, friends and communities.

And all too often the pain ends in suicide.

But such tragedies are avoidable according to the national depression initiative, beyondblue, whose chief executive Leonie Young says the greatest hurdle for combating depression is for people to realise it is a serious condition, not a weakness, and recovery is always possible.

"People in rural communities in Australia are used to toughing it out and have always been extremely resilient," she said.

"However, it's these same qualities of self-sufficiency and resolve which can sometimes make country people - particularly men - less inclined to seek help for health problems like depression."

While the incidence of depression is the same in country and city communities, access to services is lower and the rate of suicide is higher in rural areas, particularly among men.

If left untreated, depression can be a risk factor for suicide.

However, with the right treatment (medical and non-medical) most people recover from depression.

This year, beyondblue is the nominated charity for the auction proceeds from the donated fleeces from the Australian fleece competition.

Competition convener Athol Frederick, Landmark, said unfortunately this year's charity would hit home for a number of people connected with the competition.

In its ninth year, this year's competition has expanded to include a schools and agricultural college category, with the aim of giving students feedback on what was 'valuable' in wool.

Entry forms and fleeces must be delivered by June 12.

For information and entry forms, visit Landmark or www.sheepshow.com or www.awta.com.au.