One way to achieve that is through music.
On Saturday, February 22, from 4.30pm to 11pm, Project 365’s Bringing Light to the Dark event will be taking over Avian Park, Wangaratta.
The family-friendly event will feature live music from four bands, food trucks, kids’ activities, a fully licensed bar and a special display by Goldrush ballooning.
Maren Hazel, a member of headlining band ‘U can cry!’, said the event was started by a bandmate, Wangaratta’s Peter Rouke.
“Peter suffered silently for much of his life with some pretty serious mental health issues,” she said.
“The people around him thought he was a happy-go-lucky guy.”
She said one day, Peter said something about his mental health to his best friend.
“Once he had spoken about his situation, his friend encouraged Pete to share his story,” she said.
“And between them, they came up with the idea of using music to bring people together, create a fun atmosphere, and encourage others to have that conversation.
Hazel said she could not overstate the importance of letting people know if you were struggling, checking in on mates and asking if they’re doing okay, and removing the stigma that stops people having that first conversation.
“Sometimes it’s scary. Sometimes you think you’re the only one,” she said.
“But, if you’re struggling it’s important just open your mouth and say something.”
As part of the theme of bringing light to the dark, local hot air ballooning company Goldrush Ballooning will illuminate six hot-air balloons above the event.
Tickets are $45 per person. Family tickets (Two adults and two under 15s) are $90. Kids under-15 are $15. Under-5s can enter for free, but must reserve tickets. A group of 10 people will cost $350.
Tickets can be purchased via events.humanitix.com/project-365-wangaratta/
If you or someone you know is experiencing issues around mental health you can contact Accessline on 1800 800 944, Lifeline Australia on 13 11 14, BeyondBlue on 1300 224 636 or Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800.
