Community members are invited to join a shared conversation about mental health and wellbeing at a series of forums in Emerald next month.
The Central Highlands Regional Council is partnering with the Queensland Mental Health Commission and Centacare CQ to co-host the events, which align with the state government’s Early Action: Queensland Mental Health Promotion, Prevention and Early Intervention Action Plan 2015-2017.
‘The Mental Health Commission approached council to collaborate to our shared commitment to supporting the mental health and wellbeing of regional Queenslanders,’ Manager Community Planning and Engagement Janice Moriarty said.
‘The Commission acknowledged the opportunities highlighted within the vision of the Central Highlands 2022 Community Plan for agencies to mutually contribute to the important priority of connected and inclusive communities.’
The forums will include a presentation by guest speaker Tony Coggins of Maudsley International (MI), a UK-based social enterprise aimed at improving global mental health.
‘Mr Coggins will share his insights and experience from working in many countries with strategies and programs that strengthen individual and community wellbeing,’ Mrs Moriarty said.
‘Those attending the forum will be invited to join in on discussions with our panel members. They will also be given an opportunity to experience the Wheel of Wellbeing which includes practical tools and tips that we can all use to support our wellbeing.’
The panel will include representatives from the Queensland Mental Health Commission, Central Queensland Hospital and Health Service, Central Queensland Primary Health Network, Centacare CQ and the newly established Central Highlands Regional Mental Health and Wellbeing Hubs.
A general forum for community members will be held at the McIndoe Function Centre on Tuesday 6 September from 6.00 pm, followed by a forum for local government on Wednesday 7 September at 10.00 am.
To secure your spot please RSVP to Bernardine Frawley on 4982 8391 or to bfrawley@chrc.qld.gov.au by 2 September 2016.