Local residents gathered at the grounds of Tamborine Memorial Hall on Friday 24 May, for 'Cuppa in the Communi-tea'.
This free, accessible, inclusive event is an initiative funded by the Queensland Government's Mental Health and Wellbeing Community Package under the Queensland Economic Recovery Strategy. It regularly travels to different locations around the Scenic Rim area, providing residents with information about available resources.
This year, the event primarily focused on offering practical and emotional support to residents still recovering from the widespread destruction caused by the Christmas Day tornado.
Scenic Rim Regional Community Development Officer, Lacey, emphasised the importance of emergency preparedness and encouraged residents to get to know their neighbours. She distributed Disaster Dashboard Kits, which included essential contact numbers, portable power banks, mini torches, and activity books for families with children.
Christine Kumnick from the Metro South Addiction and Mental Health Services Disaster Flood Team was also on hand to highlight the work that they do.
"We offer a confidential, free service to individuals, children, and families impacted by the floods in Southeast Queensland - and the recent storm. No referral is necessary; you can contact us directly. Individuals experience a wide range of emotions before and after a traumatic event. There’s no right or wrong way to feel. People tend to compare themselves to others and often question why they’re struggling if others aren’t. It’s really about normalising the response."
Christine also described their 'psychological first aid' approach for those dealing with loss, highlighting the Seasons for Growth program, which aims to strengthen the social and emotional well-being of adults who are dealing with significant life changes.
"These are group sessions, mostly. We also go into schools to hold workshops for children too," Christine said.
Other service providers at the event included Frances Munro from Divine Essence Therapies, representatives from BreastScreen Queensland, and Anne-Louise Underwood from Home Instead, a national provider of relationship-based, in-home care for aging Australians. The Salvation Army's Moneycare service was also in attendance, offering free and confidential financial counselling to people from all walks of life.
Councillor for Division 2, Kerry Cryer, was present at this monthly event, as was Amanda Hay, Councillor for Division 1. Both were keen to chat with residents about any concerns or issues they had. Tamborine Village Lions Club kindly provided food for those wanting a bite to go with their cuppa.
Upcoming community events in June:
- Beechmont: June 12, 10-11 am, Graceleigh Park
- Tamborine Mountain: June 18, 10-11 am, outside the Library
The next Seasons for Growth Seminar will be occurring on Saturday 8 June 2024, at the Vonda Youngman Community Centre, Tamborine Mountain. Reserve your spot here.
Article and photographs provided by Sharon Joslyn, Tamborine Bulletin.