August 15, 2022
Organisers have blamed the threat of rain for a low turnout at Friday night’s free “Winter Warmers” event in the Kingaroy Town Hall Forecourt.
Cr Danita Potter, chair of the South Burnett Suicide Prevention Working Group which put on the event, said about 60 people attended, a figure well down on previous years.
Winter Warmers aims to encourage the community to learn more about suicide prevention strategies and where to go to get help.
It was also an opportunity for local residents to enjoy some free music and piping hot food, including a delicious beef stew and vegetarian curry.
The Kingaroy Men’s Shed also put on a free sausage sizzle.
Cr Potter said the event had been sponsored by the Wesley Mission.
Trifold “Support Finder” wallet cards containing useful phone numbers were distributed on the night.
Attendees also had the opportunity to enjoy a free concert by local singer Amber Goldsmith.
“I would have liked to have more people there but as soon as the rain started to come, I knew the numbers were going to be down,” Cr Potter said.
“But it is all worthwhile if we helped just one person.”
The leftover food was donated to BlazeAid and The Pantry.
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If you or someone you know needs help, call:
- Lifeline on 13-11-14
- Kids Helpline on 1800-551-800
- MensLine Australia on 1300-789-978
- Suicide Call Back Service on 1300-659-467
- Beyond Blue on 1300-224-636