Canberra connects with the Conversation Convoy
hello • 12 September 2018
Canberra’s residents joined politicians and R U OK? Ambassadors Barry Du Bois, Nick De La Hoyde, James Van Cooper and John Schumann to welcome the Conversation Convoy to the nation’s capital.
The Royal’s Rugby Club cooked up a free breakfast and the tea flowed as those gathered joined the call to notice subtle changes in a loved one’s behaviour, reach out and start a conversation.
Brendan Maher CEO R U OK? said,
"Life happens to all of us - someone dies, we lose a job, have a problem at work - and we're well placed to notice when these are affecting those around us."
Minister for Health Hon. Greg Hunt followed, emphasising the importance of starting the conversation and encouraging those who are struggling to seek help saying,
"Suicide and mental health can affect everyone. This Convoy is about saying it's OK to talk, it's OK to ask someone, Are you OK?, it's OK to seek help."
Long-term R U OK? Ambassador Barry Du Bois showed how powerful these conversations can be by sharing his own story of struggle.
"My wife knew that I was changing and kept saying 'Are you OK?' I'd always say, 'I'm fine' but when she got my friend to ask me that question, that's what started my recovery," said Barry.
Musicians James Van Cooper and Nick De La Hoyde entertained the crowd with moving performances including original songs that explored their own periods of hardship and the role that support played in getting them through those times.
Suicide prevention and mental health organisations present on the day included StandBy Support After Suicide, The Way Back Support Service , Relationships Australia, Mental Health Australia and batyr.
Special thanks to Royals Rugby Club for their support on the day.
• Tanya Hennessy, media personality
• Travis Collins, musician
The pair are taking part in Ks for R U OK?, a fundraising challenge that encourages people to get moving while raising funds and awareness for mental health and suicide prevention.
Chris’ former neighbour, Blake, was just 14 years old when he noticed something wasn’t right and trusted his instincts enough to act.
A single conversation gave Eliza the space to stop pretending she was OK. It helped her access the right support and marked the beginning of her journey towards rebuilding her life after one of its lowest points.
