R U OK? Conversation Convoy comes to Katherine

THE Lindsay street complex in Katherine was awash with bright yellow Friday morning when suicide prevention charity R U OK? rolled in to town in four branded SUV’s.

The charity hosted a free community event to encourage the people of Katherine to ask the life changing question of anyone they feel might be doing it tough.

R U OK? Community ambassador Jake Gablonski opened the event explaining why he chose to become an ambassador and how the Katherine community had been pivotal to him when he had gone through his own struggles.

Jake said it was thanks to the support of family and friends having meaningful conversations with him, that he was able to open up and get back to a better place.

The event was supported by other health sector providers, including Rural and Remote Mental Health who are on the R U OK? Convoy for the full six weeks. Providers spoke about the services on offer in the town.

Primary and high school students participated in a series of fun activations designed to teach the four steps to staring a heartfelt conversation.

The four stations were Ask, Listen, Encourage action and Check in.

CEO Brendan Maher said he was thrilled with the support from the Katherine community and noted that if even a couple of people who attended the event came away feeling more confident to check in with someone they were worried about, the visit had been worthwhile.

Other community members dropped by and enjoyed a free BBQ hosted by the Rotary Club of Katherine.