R U OK? at Garma 2017

Each year an estimated 2,500 visitors gather and camp at Gulkula, a traditional ceremonial meeting ground, historically significant to the Yolngu people of the north east Arnhem Land. Here, guests from all persuasions gather to experience four days of the Garma Festival, Australia’s largest indigenous led, indigenous programmed cultural exchange.

R U OK? were invited to be a part of the Youth Forum, held throughout the festival. The Youth Forum centres on exploring pathways for the next generation to shape Australia’s future.

Suicide is one of the most common causes of death among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Alongside a number of forums on social, emotional wellbeing, and mental health, R U OK? showcased peer support and meaningful connections to Youth Forum attendees through a performing arts workshop.

With thanks to R U OK? school partner, Brainstorm Productions , a production called ‘Sticks and Stones’ was performed for all youth attendees, designed to focus on engaging friends and family in conversation with an emphasis on recognising body language and subtle social cues when someone appears not to be ok.

Sticks and Stones is about two energetic young performers and shines a spotlight on negative patterns of behaviour through inappropriate modelling from peers, TV and computer games. It demonstrates the importance of seeking help and asking our friends, family and community if they are ok. It also discusses the services that are available to support people when they are struggling. The hard hitting narrative is punctuated with circus skills to demonstrate cooperation and the use of control through breathing techniques, focus and channelling energy into positive pursuits.

On the final day of Garma, R U OK? was invited to co-host a Q&A session with all youth attendees. Guests heard the moving music, song lyrics and poetry that had been created over the four days and listened to feedback, learnings and hopes for the future.

We express our thanks to the Youth Yindi Foundation for welcoming us to Garma and the opportunity to share the power of conversation.