On Wednesday, 8 October, the Burdekin Men's Shed Association hosted it's annual Mental Health Week event, with this year's "Cuppa, Chat and Chew" welcoming attendees from across the Burdekin to connect and discuss mental health.
The day began with a morning tea at 9 am, followed by a keynote address from Holly Apps of the Burdekin Community Association, during which she shared personal insights and anecdotes from her own mental health journey, engaging the audience throughout. Guests were also given the opportunity to contribute, with representatives from local organisations sharing their experiences and perspectives.
The event brought together a diverse range of community organisations, reflecting the Men's Shed's commitment to providing access to a wide array of mental health resources. Charles Ford, spokesperson for the Burdekin Men's Shed Association, explained the reasoning behind the inclusive approach: “We are part of the community… we want to expose our clients to everything,” he said. “Most of our members have contacted one of these organisations at some time, and they benefited from it.”
Ford also highlighted the broader mission of the Men's Shed, noting that the events aim to address men's health issues such as depression and isolation, while fostering connection and support. “I call it health without a pill,” he said. “They basically come along, and instead of regurgitating their illness at home, they come here… by the time they’re talking to somebody else, it disappears.” The benefits, he added, extend to carers and family members, who are given a reprieve while participants engage with the community.
The association’s Mental Health Week event is part of a busy calendar that spans the month, including luncheons for seniors, committee meetings, and other community gatherings. These initiatives, Ford explained, are designed to strengthen ties across the Burdekin region and ensure that support is accessible for those who need it.
By connecting individuals with resources and providing a space for open conversation, the Burdekin Men's Shed continues to champion mental health awareness and foster a stronger, more supportive community.
Photos:
1. Burdekin Men's Shed Association members with Cr. John Furnell and keynote speaker Holly Apps. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
2. The event brought together a diverse range of community organisations, reflecting the Men's Shed's commitment to providing access to a wide array of mental health resources. Photo credit: Jacob Casha
3. BMSA President Chris Fox and Guest Speaker Holly Apps.
4. Burdekin School Principal Claire Cheyne.
5. George Kouk of Selectability Ayr
6. Zonta President Isabel Stubbs
7. Michelle Mallory of Nth QLD Right At Home
Publishers Indemnity. Any individual or entity that places advertising, supplies copy material, or submits editorial content to Core Life Publishing agrees and undertakes to ensure that all such material:- Does not infringe upon any copyright, trademark, or other intellectual property rights;- Is free from any content that could be considered defamatory, libelous, or slanderous;- Does not infringe upon any rights related to privacy or breach of confidence;- Contains no obscene, indecent, or otherwise unlawful material;- Complies fully with the Trade Practices Act and all other applicable laws, regulations, or statutes.Furthermore, by submitting or placing such material, these individuals or entities agree to indemnify and hold harmless the publisher, Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd, and/or its agents from and against any and all investigations, claims, demands, liabilities, damages, costs, or judgments arising out of or in connection with the material provided. All material is believed to be accurate at the time of printing and remains the copyright of Core Publishing and Events Pty Ltd.
© 2023 Burdekin Life Pty Ltd.
