Free Events For Mental Health Week

October 11, 2022

A number of special community activities have been organised in Kingaroy this week to help residents get together to mark Mental Health Week (October 8-16).

Wednesday (October 12) – Free Terrarium Workshop for 12-24-year-olds – 3:30pm-4:30pm at Conquer Fitness, 3 Stehbens Street, Kingaroy

Thursday (October 13) – Free Macrame Workshop with Mandy from Loveknots – 10:00am at Conquer Fitness, 3 Stehbens Street, Kingaroy

Thursday (October 13) – Games Night at Yourtown – 4:00pm-7:00pm at yourtown, Shop 1, 16 Alford Street, Kingaroy

Friday (October 14) – Coffee, Colouring & Chat with Chiedza – Hunter Gatherer Trader, 28 Alford Street, Kingaroy

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Cr Danita Potter chairs the South Burnett Suicide Prevention Working Group

South Burnett Mayor Brett Otto said mental health was one of the most serious issues facing the South Burnett.

“Council works with many support services to help our community deal with the often complex problems,” the Mayor said.

“Mental Health Week is a time to become more aware of not only the problems but also the solutions available to help people, especially the young and farmers who are most at risk in the South Burnett of developing mental health challenges.

“There is often a stigma in country areas associated with asking for help or letting others know that you are struggling. Fortunately, we have many groups who work together and with Council to provide support for those doing it tough.”

Mayor Otto commended the many groups for their work, including the South Burnett Suicide Prevention Working Group, Graham House, South Burnett CTC, Lives Lived Well, CRAICCHS, Regional Housing Limited, Centacare and the various Men’s Sheds.

Cr Danita Potter is Council’s representative on the South Burnett Suicide Prevention Working Group and has been working to promote the various Mental Health Week activities.

The theme for Mental Health Week is “Awareness, Belonging and Connection”.

Darling Downs spokesperson Greg Neilson said the community-based activities which had been organised were an important way to raise awareness about mental health and the importance of reaching out for support when we need it.

“They also go a long way to help make connections across our communities and create a sense of belonging, both of which improve an individual’s mental health,” Mr Neilson said.

Footnote: A successful pre-Mental Health Week event was held on Friday night at Kingsley Grove Estate cellardoor near Kingaroy to raise funds for Beyond Blue.