Empowered Magazine #10

Empowered 10

Wide Bay Queensland

A Welcome

from the CEO of Trauma ASSIST

“Empower Minds, Break the Silence, and become a part of change”.

Welcome, dear readers, to this special edition of our magazine, where we delve into topics that touch the very core of our communities and individual lives. This month, as we observe Domestic Violence Awareness Month, we take the opportunity to explore a range of interconnected issues that deeply affect millions of people worldwide.

Domestic violence is a pervasive issue that knows no boundaries. It affects individuals regardless of age, race, gender, or economic status.

This year’s theme is to take positive action to build a safer Queensland.

Mental health also remains a topic of paramount importance, and this month, we take a closer look at bipolar disorder. This condition affects millions and can be challenging to navigate without understanding and support.

We also address Men's health which is often overshadowed by societal norms, yet it is crucial for the well-being of families and communities.

From physical health to mental wellness, we discuss the unique challenges men face and offer guidance on how to overcome them. Let’s encourage men to prioritize their health and seek help when needed.

Lastly, we emphasize the significance of raising awareness about child grooming which is crucial in protecting children from manipulative tactics used by predators to gain their trust and exploit them. By educating both children and adults on the signs and risks of grooming, we empower communities to safeguard vulnerable individuals and prevent potential abuse.

Each article in our magazine is crafted with care and intention, aiming to educate and motivate action. Whether you are here to learn, to share, or to find solace in shared experiences, know that you are part of a community that values growth, healing, and collective well-being.

As we navigate the complexities of these and other critical issues, let us remember the power of empathy and the impact of understanding. By embracing these values, we can create ripples of positive change that extend far beyond our individual lives. Your engagement is key in this mission, and we are grateful for your support.

Together, let us continue to build a future where awareness leads to action, and action leads to a brighter, more compassionate world for all.

Thank you for being part of this journey. Let's make a difference, one page at a time.

Let’s make a difference.

Sandra Holebrook

Contents STALKING ............................................................. 2 DFV MONTH .......................................................... 3 THE PURPLE BOOK: VIDEOS ................................ 5 BIPOLAR DISORDER

............................................. 7

MEN´S HEALTH ...................................................... 8 WHY YOU NEED A WILL ....................................... 9 SENIORS - BE SCAM SAFE ................................... 10 TOXIC MASCULINITY ........................................... 11 DADS & SONS ...................................................... 12 LGBTIQ+ .............................................................. 13 CATFISH ................................................................14 7 BENEFITS OF HAPPINESS ................................. 15 CHILD GROOMING .............................................. 17 MEN ARE DYING TOO YOUNG ............................. 19 THE LOUNGE ....................................................... 21 EARLY CHILDHOOD APPROACH ......................... 22 WHAT´S HAPPENING THIS MONTH .................... 23

Proudly Produced by Trauma ASSIST

STALKING IS A CRIME Stalking is behaviour through which someone imposes themselves into another person’s life in a way which causes distress, fear, and disruption.

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics: . An estimated 2.7 million people aged 18 years and over (14%) have experienced stalking since the age of 15. . About 2 million of these people are women accounting for 20 per cent, or one in five . Women are stalked three times more often than men Stalking perpetrators can be anyone, including members of your family, neighbours, acquaintances, work colleagues, or even complete strangers.

Many well known serious crimes have occurred because of escalating behaviour by stalkers.

Source: Personal Safety, Australia, 2021-22 financial year | Australian Bureau of Statistics (abs.gov.au)

QLD Victim Assist: 1300 546 587

TYPE OF STALKERS Domestic: stalking a former spouse. This is probably the most common type of stalking where a relationship has broken down b/w intimate partners & one of the partners can’t accept the breakdown of the relationship.

These relationships have often lasted years & where they’ve had children together.

Revenge: angry former employee, business partner whose motive is payback, also can include Domestic & Rejected Stalkers.

These stalkers feel harmed or slighted by their victim in some way. They are often seeking revenge and to punish the person.

Lust or Predatory: serial predators who stalk victim after victim. Serial rapists & murderers may begin as lust stalkers. Often delusional This is the smallest group, but most frequently reported in the media, where a stranger will stalk a person seeking to sexually assault them.

Rejected or Love Scorned: often applies to an acquaintance, co-worker, neighbour, someone you are dating etc who desires an intimate relationship but is eventually rebuffed.

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DFV MONTH THE THEME FOR 2025 IS:

TAKE POSITIVE ACTION TODAY TO BUILD A SAFER QUEENSLAND DFV Prevention Month is an annual event held each May to raise community awareness of the social and personal impacts of domestic and family violence and the support available to those affected.

Promote a clear message of no tolerance of domestic and family violence in Queensland communities; ensure those who are experiencing domestic and family violence know how to access help and support; encourage people who use abuse and/or violence to take responsibility for their abusive behaviour and seek support to change.

Help and support is available If you’re worried about your safety in a relationship, help and support are available.

Learn more about the progress we are making The Queensland Government is committed to addressing all forms of domestic and family violence, including coercive control, and eradicating these forms of violence from our communities.

Register an event for DFV Prevention Month: Show your support for DFV Prevention Month by hosting an event and registering the details on the Women’s Safety and Violence Prevention community events calendar.

Find a DFV Prevention Month event near you During the month, we encourage all Queenslanders to get involved by attending community events and activities to raise awareness and increase visibility of domestic and family violence and coercive control.

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“WHY DOESN’T SHE JUST… LEAVE?” There are many reasons why women stay in a relationship where they are being abused. The 9 Fs are:

Fear

Women may fear for their safety, the safety of their children, or the safety of other family members. Women may worry about what the person who abuses them will do if they try to leave or seek help; they fear retaliation.

FRIENDS

The person using violence against them often uses isolation as a tactic to control their partner, cutting them off from their friends and support networks.

FATIGUE

It can feel like a matter of survival every day for women. The person using abuse may use the woman’s exhaustion as a tactic to maintain control over her and to wear her down.

FINANCES faith

Religious beliefs may teach women to value the sanctity of marriage and they may feel obligated to remain in the relationship to uphold religious values or beliefs.

fantasy FAMILY

They may limit the woman’s access to money or force the woman to hand over their earnings. This can leave the woman feeling financially dependent and unable to leave the relationship.

It is not uncommon for women to stay in a relationship where they are being abused due to a fantasy or unrealistic belief that the person using violence will change, and the relationship will improve and become loving and healthy.

They may fear being ostracised by their family or community, or worry that their children will be negatively impacted by the separation.

feelings

Women may have feelings of love, attachment, and loyalty towards the person despite them using abuse against them. They may feel guilty or responsible for the abuse.

forgiveness

Women may feel like they need to forgive their partner in order to move forward in the relationship or to maintain a sense of peace.

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THE PURPLE BOOK: The Purple Book contains general information that may assist you to make some decisions about your situation.

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SPECIALIST COURT Specialist Domestic and Family Violence Court The specialist DFV court at Southport became Queensland’s first permanent specialist DFV court after a trial period of almost two years, commencing 1 September 2015. The trial incorporated elements of other successful Australian and international specialist court models.

The outcomes of the trial informed the establishment of future work in developing a specialist approach to the way DFV proceedings are dealt with in courts across Queensland, including the establishment of specialist DFV courts in Townsville and Beenleigh.

RECOVERY Taking your time

Recovering or healing from the impacts of domestic and family violence (DFV ) is a journey and can take time. You may feel a range of emotions. This is normal. Some days you may feel strong and confident about the decisions you have made. Other days you may feel overwhelmed by sadness, anxiety and uncertainty. You may feel as if you have lost your confidence and your sense of self as a person because of experiencing abuse and coercive control. All these feelings are completely normal and valid.

You may experience some of the following thoughts or feelings: . missing the abusive person . feeling lonely or isolated . debating going back to the relationship . feeling uncertain . feelings of anxiety or depression . finding it difficult to feel independent . a sense of fear or sense of being in danger . symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder

The recovery and healing process is never a straight line, but there are ways to help get your confidence back and find support to help you move forward and make decisions about your future.

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what is

bipolar disorder?

Bipolar disorder is a chronic (ongoing) mood disorder. It involves mood changes that disrupt everyday life — from extreme highs (mania or hypomania episodes) to extreme lows (depressive episodes).

If you have bipolar disorder, what you experience during each episode (and for how long) can vary. An episode can last for weeks or even months. Your moods may not make sense in the context of what else is going on in your life.

Around 1 in 50 Australians has bipolar disorder. Bipolar disorder often develops for the first time during teenage years or early adulthood.

DAVID’S

SYMPTOMS A person with bipolar disorder goes through mood changes that range between manic and depressive episodes.

During a manic phase, symptoms can include: feeling euphoric and very happy or irritable inflated self-esteem increased energy reduced need to sleep racing thoughts and speech being very easily distracted impulsive or risky behaviours unrealistic plans, delusions

David lives with bipolar 1 disorder and has been a presenter with the Black Dog Institute for almost a decade. He delivers a range of talks to workplaces, including ‘Mental health is everybody’s business’. He had a successful career in the advertising industry for more than 30 years and now focuses solely on his work as a mental health speaker and trainer.

“I wasn’t diagnosed with bipolar 1 until I was 48 years old. I’m 65 now. So the vast majority of my life and career was spent undiagnosed and untreated.

If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call triple zero (000). You can also call Lifeline on 13 11 14 to talk to someone 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

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MEN´S HEALTH Fun and relatable mantras can be a great tool for boosting men's mental health.

These mantras can be used in daily life and during moments of stress to promote positive thinking and selfcompassion.

Self-Care and Acceptance: "I'm a cool dude, and I'm okay."

"This too shall pass."

"I'm strong and resilient."

"I'm enough, just as I am."

"I'm worthy of happiness and love."

"I'm learning to be kinder to myself."

"I'm taking care of my body and mind, because I deserve it."

"I'm allowing myself to feel and process my emotions."

"I'm breathing in calm, and I'm breathing out worry."

"I'm choosing to focus on what I can control."

"I'm going to take one step at a time."

"I'm grateful for what I have."

Motivation and Goal Setting: "I'm capable of achieving my goals." committed

resonate with you and your values.

Stress and Anxiety:

"I'm

Personalize your mantras and epeat them regurlarly : Choose words and phrases that

to

living

a

life

of

purpose."

"I'm going to embrace new challenges."

"I'm learning and growing every day."

"I'm creating the life I want to live."

HELP OPTIONS . Emergency Services call Triple Zero (000). .

Lifeline – 24/7 suicide prevention and crisis support.

Call 13 11 14. . Suicide Call Back Service – Free 24/7 telephone counselling.

Delivered by trained counsellors at Lifeline. Call 1300 659 467. . Beyond Blue – To speak to a counsellor, call 1300 22 4636.

To chat online with a counsellor, start a webchat.

Both services are private, free, and available 24/7.

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WHY YOU NEED A WILL Death is a touchy topic that most of us don’t like to think about, let alone our own death. However, it’s something none of us can avoid.

The reason for having a Will is certainty.

Certainty about who oversees the winding up your affairs and paying your debts. Certainty about who will inherit your assets. Certainty about who will care for your children.

The death of a loved one is a deeply emotional time for family and friends.

Without a Will that details your wishes and directions, these people can be largely left in the dark. They’ll be facing large decisions, often based on what they think you would have wanted.

Emotions can run high and disagreements can often arise.

There are 3 main prepare a Will:

ways

to

Through a qualified legal professional such as a solicitor or lawyer.

A trustee organisation such as Queensland Public Trustee. They provide a free Will-making service to Queenslanders over the age of 18.

Self-made Wills. You can purchase a Will kit from a newsagent, some Post Office locations, or download one from the internet.

Other options are: enduring power of attorney, advance health directives, statutory health attorney.

Your Will is a legal document setting out how your assets will be distributed when you pass away.

It can also cover things like: . who will benefit from your estate . who gets personal or family items or other property you might have . what happens to things like life insurances or other investments . sharing any wishes for your funeral . picking someone to administer your Will (called the executor) . naming who will look after your pets.

You should review your will every 3 to 5 years to ensure it still reflects your wishes.

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seniors - be scam safe To Keep Cash accessible and accepted, we understand that conducting financial transactions online such as internet banking, paying bills, and online shopping is a technological progression.

While it brings many advantages such as convenience for some, it also brings disadvantages and even hardship for many older Australians who are not comfortable and confident online and with digital communications like email and text messaging.

NSA’s Keep Scam SAFE campaign aims to protect older Australians so they are more aware, confident, and resilient online by providing information and education.

Emails which demand a missing payment or alert you to take action often feature exclamation marks, capital letters, threatening words, and prompts to ‘click immediately’ and ‘act now’. If you receive an email, phone call, or text message that you are unsure of, Stop, Check, and Reject.

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TOXIC MASCULINITY The message is still hitting home every single day.

- The Unbreakable Farmer I wrote this blog a year ago, and since then, not a day has gone by without someone reading it. The constant hits day in, day out tell me one thing loud and clear, this conversation matters. It was written from a place and feeling of concern. As a husband, father, grandfather, and father inlaw to seven amazing women, I’d had enough of staying quiet. But the truth is, this blog isn’t just about them, it’s also about us, as men.

So many of us are searching for answers. For meaning.

For a better way to be a man in a world that’s changing and asking us to change with it. The old ideas of masculinity shut up, toughen up, don’t show emotion they’re still hanging around. And they’re still doing damage.

This blog lays out seven things that help rethink what being a man actually means. It’s not about being perfect. It’s about being real. About being strong enough to be soft when it counts. Brave enough to be vulnerable. Willing enough to change.

The fact that people are still reading this every single day tells me we’re hungry for a different kind of masculinity one that lifts everyone up, not just men. If this is your first time reading this blog, or if you’re reading it again, thank you.

Let’s keep this conversation going...

#GotYourBackMate #Not2TUF2speakup #TheUnbreakableFarmer #MentalHealthAwareness #SuicidePrevention

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DADS & SONS We know boys whose fathers are involved with them from a young age do better in lots of ways.

TEACH HIM SKILLS

Boys learn a lot about being a man by watching and listening to their Dads from a young age. When they watch their father interact with their mother, they learn about respect in relationships and how to deal with conflict. When they watch their father interact with other men, they learn how men relate to each other and how they deal with problems. So Dads, you are very influential in teaching your sons to be good men.

Boys love to learn from their Dads. If you’re skilled as a handyman, work on a project together - perhaps you could make that go-cart or build a model plane or ship. If you don’t know how, this could be the time to learn together. Do the things together you enjoyed doing when you were a kid, or wish you had done.

You’ll create some great memories to look back on!

GET INVOLVED

GO EASY ON YOUR SON

Good relationships are about Dads being around and involved. It is best to start early, rather than waiting until he is ‘old enough to do things with’ to start relating to your son. If it helps to make it happen, schedule time to be together and be strict with it. When he becomes a teenager and more independent, you may need to seek new ways to stay connected.

Many Dads are tough on their boy and pressure him to be someone he’s not, or push him beyond his abilities. Don’t be tempted to turn games into lessons and give advice when he just wants to be understood. Most of all, your son wants your approval and acceptance.

PLAY WITH YOUR SON Boys love rough and tumble games, so use these for enjoyment. A side benefit is that rough and tumble play teaches a boy selfcontrol - knowing when to back off. Play fighting can be a great way for you both to let off steam. But set some rules first, like no elbowing and no punching. Remember to give yourselves some time to calm down before moving on to the next activity.

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LGBTIQ+ 17 MAY

INTERNATIONAL DAY AGAINST HOMOPHOBIA BIPHOBIA & TRANSPHOBIA LGBTQIA+ people in Australia still today experience disproportionate rates of bullying, harassment and discrimination.

IDAHOBIT is the anniversary of May 17, 1990, when the World Health Organisation removed homosexuality from the Classification of Diseases.

While we celebrate this milestone and other advancements in LGBTQIA+ equality, the unfortunate reality is that these are all too-recent in our history: The first Mardi Gras pride march was held in Sydney in 1978, which was met with violence from police. Those who marched were beaten inside police cells and had their names published by the Sydney Morning Herald.

The majority of Australians today were alive during a time when it was illegal to be gay. The Marriage Equality plebiscite was held in 2017. While marriage equality was passed, 38.4% of Australians voted against it (4.8 million people).

28 MAY

DAY FOR LGBTQ+ DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AWARENESS In 2025

LGBTQIA+ people are less likely to be out at work than in 2022 (AWEI, 2025)

2 in 3

LGBTQIA+ youth experience abuse due to their identity

35%

of LGBTQIA+ Asutralians have experienced verbal abuse in the past 12 months

Each year millions of people around the world get involved in IDAHOBIT, building a world free from discrimination.

The first IDAHOBIT was held in 2005 and is today acknowledged by millions of people globally.

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Wide Bay QLD

CATFISHING Catfishing is when someone sets up a fake online identity and uses it to trick and control others. Often they do it to scam people out of money, blackmail them or harm them in some other way.

Catfishing is a cruel and embarrassing trick, but there are some things you can do to prevent it or stop the harm getting worse: Look out for people who seem ‘too good to be true’ and other warning signs – like their online profile doesn’t really match the way they chat or act, they have a low friend count on social media or they want to get sexual very quickly.

If someone has catfished you and then shared or threatened to share your nudes, eSafety can get the images or videos removed and help stop the threats.

Being blackmailed over your nudes is called ‘sextortion’ – do not pay the blackmailer or give them more money or intimate content. You can report them and get help.

CATFISHING USUALLY SEVERAL STEPS:

HAPPENS

IN

They may pretend to be someone who’s really good looking or famous, like a celebrity or sports star, so you feel excited and flattered when they show interest in you. Or they could pretend to be an ordinary person and claim they like all the same things as you, so you think they’re your ‘perfect match’.

Usually they give an excuse for not showing themselves in a video chat. They may flatter you by giving you lots of compliments, affection and maybe even gifts.

When you trust them, they ask you for something. They may want you to: share personally identifiable information, do them a favour, give them money or cryptocurrency, buy them gift cards, send them an intimate image or video, such as a nude get sexual in a video chat, even though you can’t see them on camera.

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HAPPINESS AND HEALTH:

7 BENEFITS OF HAPPINESS ON YOUR WELLBEING 1. Boosts heart health Studies have shown that happy people tend to have lower heart rates and blood pressure, which are crucial for a healthy heart.

2. Strengthens the immune system Research suggests that positive emotions can boost your immune system, making your body better at fighting off illnesses.

3. Reduces pain and discomfort People who maintain a positive outlook often report lower levels of pain and discomfort. While happiness isn’t a cure for all pain, it can certainly play a role in how you perceive and handle it.

4. Lowers stress levels When you're happy, your body produces less cortisol, the stress hormone. This means that maintaining a happy disposition can help you manage stress, contributing to a more relaxed and peaceful life.

5. Helps combat disease and disability Happy people are more likely to engage in physical activity and choose healthier foods. These habits can reduce the risk of chronic diseases, leading to a healthier lifestyle.

6. Enhances emotional resilience Happiness can bring you a greater ability to bounce back from life's challenges. When you're happy, your positive outlook on life can help you navigate through tough times.

7. Improves overall life satisfaction Ultimately, happiness can lead to a deeper sense of satisfaction with life. It can help you appreciate the small joys and the big achievements, contributing to a more fulfilling existence.

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HOW TO BE HAPPY AGAIN Happiness is an integral part of our emotional and mental wellbeing, and often shifts in response to life's changes. It's not unusual for events, whether big or small, to temporarily cloud the joy we once felt easily.

The good news is that finding happiness again is possible. You just need a few practical steps to help you learn what brings personal joy and contentment in your current phase of life.

WHAT IT MEANS TO FIND HAPPINESS IN YOUR OWN LIFE Happiness is usually made up of a complex blend of emotions and experiences that bring a lasting sense of inner fulfillment and contentment, and this blend varies from person to person. While some people find joy in solitary activities like reading or gardening, others might find it in social interactions or physical activities.

As you grow and evolve, so do the things that bring you happiness. Embrace this dynamic nature as part of the journey, and remember that feeling happy doesn't mean you won't experience sadness, anger, or stress. Happiness involves learning how to balance these emotions and finding joy in the midst of life's ups and downs. This journey back to happiness isn't just about recapturing moments of laughter or pleasure—it's a deeper quest for a fulfilling state of being.

Finding happiness is a gradual process that requires patience, self-exploration, and an openness to change and growth.

Start by writing down things that bring you joy, like favorite hobbies, cherished memories, beloved people, or peaceful places. Your happiness list can evolve with you over time, so be open to discovering new sources of happiness as life unfolds.

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CHILD - GROOMING WHAT IS SEXUAL GROOMING? Grooming refers to the behaviours that a person deliberately does over a long period of time to befriend and create an emotional connection with a child to manipulate and trick them into a sexual relationship.

Sexual grooming also involves manipulating people related to the child, and the environment in which the child is found for the sexual abuse of the targeted child. This process involves gaining access to the child, gaining the child’s compliance, and maintaining the child’s secrecy to avoid disclosure.

FACTORS THAT FACILITATE GROOMING: • Respecting Elders: Often, children are taught to “respect their elders”. With this on their mind, if an adult does something that makes them feel uncomfortable, children are likely to ignore how they feel and not protest because they believe that the adult is always right.

• Different gender sexual expectations: Many cultures normalise sexual passivity in females, whilst for males, pursuing their own sexual needs is normalised. This also leads to the expectation that men cannot control their sexual impulses. This may ‘normalise’ situations where males actively seek and manipulate younger females into sexual activity.

PERPETRATORS MAY SEEK OUT CHILDREN WHO ARE: . Compliant and trusting of adults . Unconfident and lacking in self-esteem . Lonely and isolated . Have an intellectual impairment or personal care needs . Troubled . Not close to primary caregivers or the family unit . Lacking in adult supervision

• Poor Education: Children are often not educated properly about their bodies and appropriate sexuality.

• Feelings of Shame: After coercing a child into a specific act that the child feels ashamed of, such as viewing pornographic pictures, the offender will use the child’s feelings of shame to keep them silent about the abuse.

• Taboos: Many environments regard talk about sex as taboo, which makes disclosing sexual abuse difficult.

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WHY DON’T CHILDREN TELL Children are manipulated into secrecy. The child will feel unable to tell.

The offender may tell the child that if they tell, something terrible will happen.

Through manipulation, the offender will make the child feel like they allowed the abuse to happen, particularly if the child enjoyed the attention that come with the grooming.

Children will end up feeling “dirty” and very ashamed, and will blame themselves for the sexual abuse. Statements that may be used to manipulate the child: You are so special. We have fun together, don’t we? I won’t hurt you.

This is our special secret – no one else can share it. It’s normal; it is part of growing up and being loved.

If you love me, you will do this for me.

Think of all the things I do for you.

If you tell your mum she will get really ill and she may not get better.

If you tell, I will get rid of the kitten I bought you last week.

Who would believe you, you are just a little girl, you’re always making up stories.

No one else cares where you are or what you do. I love you, if you tell on me you have no-one at all.

No one else understands our love.

If you have any concerns, no matter how small, it is helpful to trust your instinct and reach out for some guidance.

If you have noticed any behavioural changes in children, or the adults around them, it can be helpful to explore why these changes may be happening.

If a child does disclose abuse, it is important to remain calm and tell them that you believe them. It is very difficult for children to disclose abuse, and so if they do it is important they feel safe and fully supported.

Give them the opportunity to share what has happened in their own words, and at their own pace. Remind them that this is not their fault.

Bravehearts has further information to help support you when responding to disclosures of child abuse.

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MEN ARE DYING TOO YOUNG

Men in Australia die 5 years younger than women on average.

In 2023, worldwide, the median age of death

79.6 years Men

/

84.6 years Women

The gap for people born in Australia is larger.

Men born in Australia are dying 6 years younger than women on average

78.3 years Men

/

84.3 years Women

Suicide is the leading killer of men under 65 9 people a day die by suicide

5O men a day

die from avoidable causes Every day, 50 Australian men and boys die from preventable causes before the age of 75.

7 males and 2 females on average, with men and boys accounting for 3 in 4 suicides.

In 2023, a total of

3,214 people died by suicide, 2,419 males and 795 females.

In 2022, a total of

28,509 people under 75 died from potentially avoidable causes, comprising

18,080 males

/

Suicide is now the leading cause of death in men under 65 in Australia.

10,429 females

Reducing the number of preventable deaths in men to the same number as women would save the lives of more than 7,500 men and boys a year.

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72.3% of people in this age group who die are male.

7 in 10 young people who die are boys and young men

Boys and young men are significantly over-represented in deaths of people aged 15-24 years old. 72.3% of people in this age group who die are male.

In 2023, a total of

1,111 young people (15-24 years) died, 803 males and 308 females.

Heart disease is the leading killer of men in Australia claiming the lives of more than 10,000 men (nearly 30 day) in 2023. Men are at significantly higher risk of dying from chronic heart disease before they reach the age of 65.

Cancer kills 80 men a day in Australia and 250 men a day are diagnosed with cancer. Men are over 30% more likely to get cancer than women and 50% more likely to die from cancer.

Men are 50% more likely than women to die from cancer

7 in 10 alcoholrelated deaths are men

3 in 4 road deaths are men

95% of workplace deaths are men 20

THE LOUNGE A place to belong

In August 2022 we located a space to further develop the support being offered through StreetWorks, and 'The 'Lounge' was birthed.

The Lounge is opened at various times throughout the week with a community meal held each Monday evening. The Lounge provides a quiet space off the streets and away from the boarding rooms where people can come and relax for a friendly chat, grab some hygiene supplies, food items, a swag or warm bedding, or enjoy a quiet game of cards or a cuppa with friends in a safe environment.

If Kindness Works is like a family, The Lounge is like our living room, where everyone comes together.

Call. (07) 4124 7200 Email. admin@kindnessworks.com.au Address. 20 Nikenbah-Dundowran Road, Nikenbah QLD 4655

MENTAL HEALTH FIRST AID COURSE - HERVEY BAY: JUNE 2025

Provide mental health support in your workplace

Course Details . 26-27 June 2025 . 9:00am to 4:00pm . Two days, face-to-face . Venue: Hervey Bay Boat Club, Buccaneer Drive, Urangan

SIGN UP

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The Mental Health First Aid® (Standard) twoday course teaches people (18 years and over) how to offer initial support to other adults who are developing a mental health problem, experiencing a worsening of an existing mental health problem or are in a mental health crisis until appropriate professional help is received or the crisis resolves.

Building a psychologically safe workplace starts from a foundation of empathy. It’s about leading with care, compassion and curiosity.

And for those organisations prioritising staff mental health, the bottom line has never looked better.

Wide Bay QLD

EARLY CHILDHOOD APPROACH BUSHkids works with children younger than 6 with developmental delays or children younger than 9 with disability access the supports and services they and their families need to achieve better long-term outcomes.

The early childhood approach program is fully funded by the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA)—the federal agency responsible for delivering the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS)—so like all BUSHkids services it’s free of charge.

Email: bushkids@ndis.gov.au - BUNDABERG 07 4111 1655 CALOUNDRA 07 5208 9074 - EMERALD 07 4982 0905 GLADSTONE 07 4904 5335 - GYMPIE 07 5209 6020 - HERVEY BAY 07 4183 8920 - KINGAROY 07 4183 8424 - MAROOCHYDORE 07 5406 0708 - ROCKHAMPTON 07 4994 2120

HERVEY BAY LOCAL PEER SUPPORT GROUP Join the Hervey Bay Local Peer Support Group hosted by the Queenslanders with Disability Network (QDN), the executive peak body for people with disabilities in Queensland, particularly in the Hervey Bay region. The group offers a unique space for mutual support, empowerment, and advocacy.

Meeting Details: Date: Third Wednesday of each Month Time: 10:00am - 12:00pm Location:

Urangan

Community

Wellness Centre (Tree house), Corner Elizabeth and Miller Street, Urangan, QLD 4655 JOIN TODAY

Group Convenor, Barbara, hosts monthly meetings in Hervey Bay, providing a welcoming environment where members can connect, share experiences, and discuss matters impacting their lives.

Note: Some light snacks and beverages will be provided.

No RSVP needed.

For questions or special accommodations, contact us at 07 3252 8566 / 1300 363 783 or email peersupport@qdn.org.au.

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Wear your suit jacket and tie to show how distinguished you are and help us promote awareness for PROSTATE CANCER. We ride as a group along Booral Rd, The Esplarade lo Gatakers Boat Ramp, Pt. Vernon, before retuming along The Esplanade to finish al Seafront Oval carpark, Pialba.

Prostate Cancer

Awareness

18 OF MAY, 8:30AM HERVEY BAY AIRPORT BP

BY HISTORICAL MOTORCYCLE CLUB FRASER COAST

The ride is FREE but donations gratefully accepted with all riders welcome to the sausage sizzle and coffee at the conclusion of the ride where awards will be handed out for various categories. So polish up your machines and get your dapper clobber out and let's raise awareness for men's health.

All monies raised will be donated directly to the Maryborough & Hervey Bay Prostate Cancer Support Groups, so put your hands in your pocket and support these very worthy community organisations.

The ride will be postponed in the event of bad weather. Contact Lee (0428 436 804) or Des (0427 061 981)

DOMESTIC AND FAMILY VIOLENCE PREVENTION MONTH 2025 We are calling on our community to show support by going purple to raise awareness for Domestic and Family Violence. The colour purple symbolises peace, courage, survival, honour, and dedication to ending violence. By wearing purple or displaying it in your business or service, you honour the lives lost, support those who remain, and stand with those currently experiencing Domestic and Family Violence.

Together, we can raise awareness and spark change. Let’s speak up and be the voice that breaks the silence.

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Wide Bay QLD

🧠✨ HEADS UP IS BACK! A free wellbeing program for young people aged 17 to 25 who want to boost resilience, self-esteem, and mental health

💪

📅 Session 1: Living Your Best Life 🕞 Next Tuesday (27 May) | 3:30–5:00 PM 📍 Headspace Hervey Bay 🌟 Each week covers a new theme—from

managing screen time to setting goals, building relationships, and learning real strategies to thrive.

Got questions or keen to join?

Call (07) 4303 2100 Email: faxheadspaceherveyba y@wmq.org.au

FRASER COAST JUNE 18 VOLUNTEER MANAGERS NETWORKING MEETING Whether you're new to volunteer coordination or have years of experience, this group offers a chance to:

🤝 Build valuable connections with others working in the volunteer space 💡 Share knowledge, challenges and practical insights 🌱 Grow a stronger culture of volunteering in the Fraser Coast through collaboration and support

Together, we can create more rewarding experiences for our volunteers, build capacity within our organisations, and champion the vital role volunteers play in our communities.

📅 Next meeting:

Wednesday, June 18, 2025

🕙 10:00am – 11:00am 📍 Hervey Bay Community Centre, 22 Charles St Pialba

💬 Open to all volunteer managers, coordinators

and

community

organisers Let’s continue building a connected, skilled and inspired volunteer community.

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DadLAN Are you a dad who loves technology, playing games and eating pizza and pasta?

DadLAN runs every month in the Hervey Bay Community Centre to bring dads with an interest in technology together. Our mission is to fight loneliness, improve mental health outcomes and provide a dependable social space where we chat, play computer games and eat some free food!

Being a dad can be incredibly rewarding, but at times it can also be socially isolating, DadLAN provides a space for you to have some fun while meeting and talking to other fathers in our local area!

🎉 DadLAN has been running now in the Bay for over 12 months. We

meet once a month in person and also have a great online presence in discord with over 3000 members Australia wide!

THE NEXT EVENT!

📅 Date: Sunday, 18th of May 2025 ⏲️ Time: 1-5pm 📍 Location: Hervey Bay Community Centre 22 Charles St 💰 Price: FREE (though please book tickets to help us to track numbers and plan ahead)

💻 Loan laptops: Don't have a computer? Don't fret! We have a large

number of laptops all set up that we can lend you on the day! Just indicate you need one when grabbing your free ticket!

🎮 Games: There are many games to choose from on the day! Think Quake, Doom, Battlefield, Red alert etc!

What's the catch?: There is none! We are funded through community BBQs, you might see us at Bunnings occasionally too!

Also come say hi in our discord, which you can find on our front page.

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Wide Bay QLD

COMMUNITY CHILD CARE Child health services at FCRC each morning 9-12, Monday to Friday, with clinic appointments are held at Galangoor Mother and Baby Service on Boat Harbour Drive next to Suncorp.

VISIT WEBSITE

For all booking 41285403. Still providing services at a few locations. Come see us.

Rattle & Rhythm at the Library 9:30 & 10 Come see all of us.

WALKING SIDE BY SIDE The Hervey Bay Arts Society is proud to present Walking Side by Side, an exhibition dedicated to promoting reconciliation and unity between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities.

This special event will offer artists a space to share their work in an environment of mutual respect, cultural exchange, and deeper understanding.

Walking Side by Side welcomes artists from all backgrounds to submit artworks that explore themes of reconciliation, community, and collaboration.

Each piece will contribute to fostering meaningful connections between cultures, encouraging dialogue, and amplifying diverse voices through creative expression.

“This exhibition is a powerful opportunity for Indigenous and non-Indigenous artists to come together, share their stories, and express their perspectives through art," says Donna Stackman, President of the Hervey Bay Arts Society Gallery 5.

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Community Resources