Forum to tackle health and wellbeing challenges

THE coming G21 Regional Forum will focus on health and wellbeing, with the 2024 edition of the annual event discussing some of the pressing problems facing local communities and some of the possible solutions.

To be held at RACV Torquay Resort on October 3, the all-day event will feature several panel discussions and presentations.

Keynote speaker Dr Norman Swan will also chair the first session, “State of Mind – mental health in the region”.

According to the latest figures, 10.6 per cent of G21 residents have a mental health condition, higher than the Victorian average of 8.8 per cent.

The proportion of adults in Barwon South West reporting high/very high psychological distress has increased.

Dr Swan will discuss the issue with three panellists – Dr Steve Moylan, clinical director of mental health, drugs and alcohol services at Barwon Health; Taungurung woman and Wanyaari Business Development and Performance director Kaley Nicholson; and YMCA Geelong chief executive officer Shona Eland.

Geelong Food Relief CEO Andrew Schauble will lead session two, “Food insecurity – a high price to pay”.

Only 15 per cent of Geelong residents eat the recommended intake of vegetables and only 46 per cent get enough fruit.

The Geelong region is experiencing significantly higher food insecurity compared with the Victorian average.

G21 CEO Guilia Baggio said that despite the achievements made as the G21 region grew, good health was one area in which the region’s communities were falling behind.

“More than 35 per cent of people in our region live with one or more chronic disease, a much higher rate than Melbourne. The region also has higher rates of smoking, obesity and psychological distress than the rest of Victoria.

“Turning around these public health challenges requires a co-ordinated and sustained approach to improve access to services and opportunities for our region.

“For example, workforce shortages are a constant challenges for our biggest employer, Barwon Health, and other healthcare providers across the region. Support is needed to attract key workers and housing affordability remains a major barrier to attracting healthcare workers in Geelong, Torquay, Lorne and Colac.”

She said the G21 Regional Forum was an opportunity for business, government and policy leaders to come together to share ideas and advocate to get better outcomes for everyone who works, lives, and plays here.

For more information or to book your ticket to the forum, head to g21.com.au