R U OK? Conversation Convoy rolls into Botanic Gardens for Sydney event

Aunty Yvonne Weldon did a moving welcome to country before CEO Brendan Maher introduced NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian who acknowledged everyone and spoke warmly about the work of R U OK? and about the importance of checking in with the people in our world if we see the signs someone isn’t quite themselves.

Maher went on to speak about founder Gavin Larkin’s vision that began 9 years ago, after the loss of his own father to suicide.

The Larkin family were all in attendance highlighting how close they remain to the ongoing direction of R U OK?

Maher invited celebrity ambassador Allison Langdon on to the stage for a Q&A where she laughed and said she was used to asking the questions, not being interviewed herself.

Langdon reflected on her friendship with Gavin Larkin prior to his death in 2011.

“What do you think Gav would say if he were standing here today, seeing how his vision has grown into a national movement?” Maher asked.

“I think he’d say why the hell aren’t we global yet!” she replied to laughter. Reminding the 100 plus guests of the go get ‘em nature of Larkin who turned one simple idea into a national movement that has gained momentum each year since.

Maher then asked Fashion designer and model Jodhi Meares on to the stage where she explained her motivation for supporting the R U OK? message.

“I have had many friends go through tough times and I know how important it is to keep checking in with them,

“In fact I’m the kind of person who will just sit at their front door and stay there until they open up and share what’s going on,

“You just have to do that with the people in your world that you love, it matters and it can really change someone’s life,” she said.

NB- Australian Story will run an updated episode of the R U OK? story this Monday on the ABC at 8pm.

For more information on the Conversation Convoy’s route and event locations Please contact:

Media manager Lisa Minner

Ph: 0421623387 or 0456475033

Nicole Warwick: [email protected] or 0412 934 643

Lizzy Thomas: [email protected] or 0400 922 919