Lake Esmond event for mental health

LAKE Esmond at Golden Point sets the scene for this Sunday’s free community gathering promoting mental health and awareness.

It will be the fourth annual running of the event being hosted by Ballarat Mental Health Collective and aimed at boosting mental health and wellbeing within the wider community.

Among those involved, Paul Hartwood of CatholicCare said it will be emceed by a person who has lived experience contending with mental health matters, and will feature live music, panel discussions, information stalls and a free barbecue.

Mr Hartwood said The Circle of Solidarity will also be a feature of the family-friendly event.

“The Circle of Solidarity was instituted by a local mental health consumer,” Mr Hartwood said.

“It is unique in the area. We stand reaching out toward each other around Lake Esmond for a one minute’s silence in solidarity for mental health.

“The event is suited to all ages, all aspects of community including people seeking information on mental health and disability support. It is family friendly with a warm vibe.

“The aim is to de-stigmatise and demystify mental health issues and to facilitate awareness of mental health and reach out to all people who want to know more.

“We are aiming to promote positive mental health and wellbeing.”

There will be musical duos in the afternoon, free snags and vegetarian options, an icecream truck, coffee, face painting, mental health and associated organisations holding information stalls, kids’ games and activities.

The event takes place from 10am to 2pm this Sunday 19 October on the Lake Esmond hill.