Hungry Jacks: R U OK? launch national Conversation Tour in Darwin

Launching in Bennett Park on Thursday, 7 August from 11am, R U OK? will be joined by Minister for Indigenous Affairs, Senator the Hon. Nigel Scullion, Lord Mayor of Darwin Katrina Fong Lim, ABC’s Craig Hamilton, CEO and players from NT Thunder, plus members of the local community to start the five-week 12,000 km journey.

While on tour, R U OK? will host 18 community events in regional and metropolitan areas in NT, NSW, VIC, SA and ACT, as well as visit schools, sports clubs and other community groups before finishing in Sydney on R U OK? Day (Thursday, 11 September 2014).

R U OK? General Manager Brendan Maher said the tour is all about getting out to communities and inspiring people to ask someone “are you ok?” and listen either way.

“The goal this year is to sign up 23,000 Conversation Mates who‘ll commit to asking the question more regularly to family and friends. Senator Scullion will be our first Conversation Mate and we hope thousands more will join him,” Brendan said.

Anyone can sign up at the event or online, where the number of Conversation

Mates will be tracked on an interactive map. By signing up, you’ll receive useful conversation tips and reminders throughout the year.

Senator Scullion said he’s looking forward to signing up.

“While we cannot bring back the people we’ve lost to suicide, we can help each other through life’s difficult times and do this long before someone even thinks about taking their own life. I urge everyone to take the time to start a conversation and really listen to what a mate has to say,” Senator Scullion said.

Hungry Jack’s National Marketing Director, Paul Tredinnick said that Hungry Jack’s is proud to support R U OK? as its Principal Partner.

“Hungry Jack’s is proud to partner with R U OK? to help reach more Australians including Hungry Jack’s staff about the importance of having regular and meaningful conversations.

“We look forward to welcoming the R U OK? Bus at 14 Hungry Jack's restaurants to engage with customers and crew,” Tredinnick said.

ABC Local Radio is supporting the tour and Darwin 105.7 presenter Charlie King will be on hand to MC the event. Everyone is welcome to attend and have some fun, a free BBQ and entertainment from 11am to 1pm.