Allendale & Tarpeena to host workshops

THE District Council of Grant is encouraging community members to take a break and get creative this Mental Health Month at two free mindful reverse colouring workshops.

Recognised every October, Mental Health Month is a reminder of the importance of looking after yourself, starting conversations and reducing the stigma around mental health.

Mayor Kylie Boston said the workshops are another way Council is bringing people together to support positive wellbeing.

“The colouring sessions build on the success of our Yarns over the Yardrails event a couple of months ago which supported the wellbeing of our farming community. Mental Health Month gives us another great opportunity to come together, try something new and highlight the importance of looking after ourselves and each other,” Mayor Boston said.

“Mindful activities like reverse colouring are a simple but powerful way to slow down and connect. I encourage as many people as possible to come along and get creative.”

Hosted by Council and funded from the Mental Health Coalition of South Australia and Barossa Hills Fleurieu Local Health Network, the free workshops will run from 10:30am to 11:30am on:

• Sunday 12 October 2025 at the Allendale East Public Hall

• Sunday 26 October 2025 at the Tarpeena Football Club Rooms

Participants will be introduced to reverse colouring, which is a simple, mindful activity that begins with a page of colours, shapes or splashes of paint. Attendees will add lines, doodles or shapes over the colours to create unique artworks. No art skills are required, just your imagination and a willingness to give it a go.

Bookings are essential to attend both workshops. RSVP’s can be made by contacting Council’s Community Development Team at the Port MacDonnell Community Complex on (08) 8738 3000.

A representative from the Mental Health Coalition of South Australia is encouraging the community to use this opportunity as a chance to start small but meaningful conversations that can make a big difference.

“Mental Health Month is the perfect reminder to prioritise our wellbeing and normalise real conversations about how we’re truly feeling,” they said.

“One simple way to start is to be genuine when someone asks ‘how are you?’. Instead of the automatic ‘fine’, try sharing if you’re feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or just having a tough day. You might be surprised how this small shift can open up meaningful connections,”

“When you need more support or complete confidentiality, professional help is always available. Connecting when it counts, today and every day.”