Spark conversation and connect this R U OK? Day

Published on 11 September 2023

Promoting the theme "I'm here to hear", each event is designed to foster a sense of belonging, encouraging residents to connect through meaningful conversations.

Chair Administrator Lydia Wilson is encouraging all residents to engage in an R U OK? conversation this September.

"The City of Whittlesea is unwavering in its commitment to building a community-wide culture of support. We invite all our residents to join us in recognising R U OK? Day 2023 on Thursday 14 September, and throughout the entire month," she said.

“Local R U OK? Day events will feature engaging conversations, activities, and in-language guest speakers, including local community leaders and mental health advocates.”

Residents can take part in a diverse range of events, from morning teas to mindfulness sessions and art activities.

“Together, let us embrace the spirit of R U OK? Day and make every day an opportunity to ask, ‘Are you OK?’ because a single conversation has the power to change a life,” said Lydia.

For additional details on upcoming events in the City of Whittlesea, visit https://www.whittlesea.vic.gov.au/

• Epping Community Centre - Wednesday 6 September from 10am
  Join us for a morning of connection and wellness with free morning tea, barista-brewed coffee, and Zumba classes for parents and children.
• Galada Community Centre - Thursday 14 September, 1 - 3pm
  Experience a heartfelt Punjabi R U OK? Day conversation session in partnership with DPV Health, featuring an R U OK? Day ambassador and enjoy free afternoon tea.
• Civic Centre - Monday 11 September, 10.30am - 12.30pm
  Engage in an Arabic R U OK? Day conversation session with an R U OK? Day ambassador in collaboration with DPV Health, followed by a complimentary morning tea.
• Riverside Community Activity Centre - Monday 11 September – Friday 15 September
  Visit our Conversation Corner all week to discover resources that will help you have meaningful conversations with your loved ones.
• Ganbu Gulinj Community Activity Centre - Tuesday 12 September, 11.30am - 12.30pm
  We are teaming up with The Hub 3757 to create a gratitude wall and host a badge making workshop with free morning tea.
• Kirrip Community Centre - Wednesday 13 September, 11am – 12pm
  Join us for a free morning tea session in partnership with Neami National.
• Whittlesea Community Garden - Thursday 14 September, 10am – 12pm
  Enjoy a free morning tea amid the serene Whittlesea Community Garden and unleash your creativity with a mindful art activity. Guest speakers from Victoria Police, LIFT mental health, and Expresso Legal will join us.
• Mernda Village Community Centre and Jindi Community Centre - Thursday 14 September, 10am – 12pm
  Join us for a heart-warming morning tea while contributing to the creation of a gratitude wall.
• Laurimar Community Activity Centre - Monday 11 September – Friday 15 September
  Visit our gratitude wall display at Laurimar Community Activity Centre throughout the week.
• Lalor Library - Monday 11 September – Friday 15 September
  Explore our gratitude wall display at Lalor Library throughout the week, where inspiration and meaningful conversations await.