Longreach showcase a connected community with the Conversation Convoy

A wealth of support services was on show today as the Conversation Convoy made its way to Edkins Memorial Park for a lunch time gathering.

Representatives from Relationships Australia, Longreach Suicide Prevention Network, Men’s Shed and Anglicare gathered in the park with information on how local residents can connect with mental health services and offered giveaways as a reminder that help is on the doorstep. The Royal Flying Doctors also provided information on their regional driving service and their coaching program ‘NewAccess’ in conjunction with beyondblue.

Elder Tony Weldon welcomed the Convo Convoy to Longreach, followed by Councillor Trevor Smith addressing the gathered crowd as to why the R U OK? message matters so much in Longreach. “This is an issue that will touch most people at some time in their lives and how connected we are with others can affect how we weather that adversity as a community,” he said.

R U OK? Campaign Director, Katherine Newton, acknowledged the drought the region currently faces and that a strong community spirit and resilience are important during such tough times, including the everyday challenges we all face at some point in our lives.

R U OK? ambassador Jacob Ridgeway gave an uplifting performance watched on by a number of students from Longreach High School, followed by a Q&A with fellow crew member and volunteer, Alan Murphy.

Jacob shared how music helps him articulate life’s ups and down whilst Alan – a paramedic by trade - shared how his best friend asked him, “Are you OK?” at a time when he really needed it. His advice to anyone that may be fearful or hesitant of asking the question? “Just ask. Go with your head, your heart and your arms - it is far better to ask than to not.”

Longreach Rotary Club served up a sausage sizzle for all in attendance with money collected kindly donated to R U OK?

The Conversation Convoy continues its journey with next stop: Rockhampton (Queensland).