RDFS mental health staff members Joseph Oui (left) and Sam McGill (right) are teaming up with Lockhart River locals on a new mental health walking initiative. Photo: Facebook.
The Royal Flying Doctor Service (RDFS) has teamed up with the men of Lockhart River for a new community-driven initiative – Walk, Talk, Yarn, Unite and Stand as One in Support of Mental Health.
Beginning with a few members from the Lockhart River men’s group, the walk encourages men from the region to open up about their mental health by walking together on the beach.
RFDS resident medical officer Sam McGill and the organisation’s mental health counsellor Joseph Oui took part in one of the first walks earlier this month.
“It’s all about having conversations, connecting with community, and offering support to those who might need it,” Mr Oui said.
“I was more than happy to support this walk, because it’s such a great way for us to promote a mental health initiative.
“The walk has had a ripple effect on the community and has also activated the women’s group to do activities, too.”
The walking group, which meets at the health clinic every week on Tuesday at 5:30pm, has now gained the support of not only RDFS, but Community Enterprise Queensland and Lockhart River Aboriginal Shire Council.
“This initiative links really well with the work we are doing in building relationships with the community and encouraging men, particularly young men, to feel comfortable at the clinic,” Mr McGill said.
“It was great to see an initiative like this come from the community.”
