Mental health and wellness the focus of fun fair

Published: 10 Oct 2019

Belly dancers, Blazer the bear, Zenith Drummers and local musicians will be on-hand to ensure the Mental Health and Wellbeing Community Fair will be a fun, vibrant event.

On top of the dynamic entertainment, there will be plenty of free children’s activities, including face painting, a jumping castle, balloon twisting, merry-go-round and petting zoo.

The fair will be held in the big shed at the Mackay Showgrounds from 11am to 3pm on Saturday, October 12.

The fair was started a number of years ago thanks to a Mackay community partnership between Mackay Rotary and the Mackay Mental Health Network (of which council is a partner).

Its aim is to educate and reduce the stigma attached to mental illness and mental health in a fun, judgement-free atmosphere.

This year, there is also an emphasis on showcasing holistic wellbeing services and suicide prevention services.

Mayor Greg Williamson said the focus of the fair this year was to provide targeted support to people by having specialised hubs.

“There will be different hubs showcasing adult services; youth services; networking and fundraising groups; suicide prevention and family support; and drug, alcohol and addiction services,” Cr Williamson said.

“But, while there is plenty of support and educational material available, it must be emphasised that this isn’t a formal, serious event – everyone has a great time and the entertainment and atmosphere is really upbeat,” he said.

While the entertainment and activities are free, organisers are asking for a gold coin on entry for a good cause.

Ken Kelly from Rotary Mackay Region said 100 per cent of money raised at the fair would be donated to Australian Rotary Health, which is one of the largest independent funders of mental health research within Australia.

“By supporting the Mental Health and Wellbeing Community Fair you will, in turn, be supporting mental health research through the Lift the Lid program,” Mr Kelly said.

“This program has a major focus on youth mental health.”

For more information, follow the Mental Health and Wellbeing Community Fair on Facebook.