The streets of Bundaberg looked a little brighter this morning as Bundaberg Regional Council Community Development Officers spread the message for R U OK? Day.
R U OK? Day is a national day of action to remind Australians to meaningfully connect with the people around them and start a conversation with those who may be struggling.
The ultimate message is that you don’t need to be an expert to reach out, just a good friend and a great listener.
Former farmer Matt Brennan, who stopped by the Council stand in the CBD pavilion, said the message of R U OK? Day was very important to him.
“You wouldn’t realise it but two months ago I couldn’t get out of bed for a month and a half and I was getting negative, very negative, thoughts,” Matt said.
“Then my mates stuck by me and got me through.”
Local secondary school teacher Kerri Bauer also visited the Council display and said the R U OK? Day message was valuable to her both inside and outside the classroom.
“It’s important to highlight that you’ve just got to talk to your neighbour or your mate or your students or your family, anyone just to make sure that they’re ok,” she said.
“I love the fact that there’s a special day that’s highlighting this and it makes the conversation happen and it should be every day.
“I try to aspire to do that every day.”
Community members also visited Bundaberg Regional Art Gallery for mindful art activities in Gallery Park where they created colourful community bunting to be displayed at the upcoming Milbi Festival.
If you or someone you know needs support, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14.
Find out more about R U OK? Day here.
