In the Dark - You’re Not Alone

Katie Hobbs, a local Clermont resident, organised a mental health event in Clermont at Hoods Lagoon in September. Katie whose nephew Brody took his own life in July last year, hoped that the event would be a visible sign of the support available to those who struggle with their mental health, and to the families affected by suicide. The event also raised awareness of the professional and community support available to families affected by mental illness in the regional town.

Close to 100 people walked, ran or rode two laps of the lagoon from 6pm Saturday night until 6am Sunday morning. With the help of the local community Katie raised more than $4,600 for mental health research. More than 20 local businesses donated funds, prizes and resources to the event.

Katie is passionate about advocating for mental health awareness, and by holding this fundraiser she has directly supported a local Clermont mental health provider, with her much-loved community benefitting directly from any donations. Having experienced loss by suicide first-hand, she said “it was beautiful to see the support and love from the local community, with the event forming connections between Clermont families, who have sadly experienced similar mental health illnesses with young adults in the community”.

Keeley Ryan, Isaac Navicare, Care Navigator recounted the success of the event, "It was great to see how many members of the community came along to the event, everyone was happy chatting with each other and the night really showed how important mental health and suicide awareness is to the overall community".

The funds raised will go directly to the Wesley Research Institute to help continue the vital work of our team at Isaac Navicare, a free service that connects people with mental health support across the Isaac region. Isaac Navicare has recently opened a hub in Clermont Community Housing and Other Services Inc centre. A Mental Health Care Navigator will be visiting LAGOONA/CCHAOSI every Thursday from 9am – 3pm. Mental Health Care Navigation support is also available by phone Monday to Friday. People can call 07 4941 9784 to speak with a Care Navigator and discuss available mental health support options.

We thank Katie for her efforts in organising and participating in the event, along with those in the local Clermont community, to raise much-needed funds for mental health research. As a first-time event raising funds for mental health research in the local community, Katie hopes to bring together more of the Clermont community and hold the event annually.

For more information about seeking help from Isaac Navicare, visit https://www.navicare.org.au/need-help

Photos contributed by Florence Studio and Zohe King